It’s important to resist the urge to bring up past experiences that have already been resolved and reopen them for discussion

Written By shane smith

Acknowledge the current disagreement and work through the conflict by actively listening to your partner. Respect your partners view and remember you are on the same team - it’s okay to take a time out if you need to. While embracing the conflict and dealing with it can be uncomfortable, it can ultimately bring you closer as a couple.

For discussion:

  • What are your automatic negative responses when conflict arises? Anger Withdrawal? Defensiveness?

  • How do these reactions affect your ability to resolve issues respectfully?

  • What can you do to counteract these reactions?

Think about how you can show your partner respect in the midst of conflict. One way to do this is to stop and count to 5 before responding. While short, this gives you a few seconds to consider a positive response versus a negative one.

Marriage and Relationship Education is a learning opportunity, much like you would do in any other important life event. Check out the video for couples on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xyuUl-JnIhM.

Tune in next week for more discussion about relationships and mental health. 

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Written by Shane Smith
shane smith
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When conflict arises, avoid using blameful language towards your partner as that invites negativity into the situation
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Communicate assertively, take responsibility for your own feelings and actions, and focus solely on the issue at hand