Key idea: Strategies follow explanations: change the talk, change the blame, or learn to accept what will not change.
What couples learn
1
Speaker and listener
One talks about one problem; the other repeats it back before answering.
2
Soft start
Begin with 'I feel' rather than an attack on the partner.
3
Time out
Take a break when anger rises, and agree to come back.
4
Repair
Small gestures after conflict: a joke, an apology, a touch.
Speak · Listen · Pause · Repair
A strategy for improving relationships: Communication-skills programmes for couples teach softer starts to arguments, listening, and repairing after conflict: the opposite of the four warning signs.
Christensen and colleagues (2004) randomly gave 134 seriously distressed couples one of two therapies: traditional behavioural therapy, or an integrative therapy that adds acceptance. Most couples in both improved.
Free preview
This is the free notes preview
You're reading the free notes. Aimnova Pro unlocks the full study experience — and you can try it with your first topic free to keep:
- FlashcardsLock in vocabulary and key terms with spaced repetition.
- Practice questionsAnswer exam-style questions and get instant AI marking.
- Mock exams & past-paper vaultSit full mocks and see exactly how examiners award marks.
- Personalised study planA daily plan built around your exam date and weak areas.
Start Studying Free Full access to Aimnova Pro · cancel anytime
Key idea: Randomised trials show that couple therapy helps many couples; it needs commitment and may need adapting.
Strengths
- Random allocation: cause can be shown
- Seriously distressed couples
- Most couples improved
Limitations
- Some still separated
- Needs commitment and therapists
- Mostly Western couples
Strategies can target talk, blame or acceptance; the best choice may depend on the couple.
What HL adds: The culture extension: where families are closely involved in a marriage, a strategy aimed only at the couple may miss key influences.