I grew up in a household where people yelled to resolve conflicts. Now in my relationship, we're trying to do better. What does healthy conflict resolution actually look like?
Healthy conflict in my marriage looks like:
- Using "I feel" statements
- Taking breaks if too heated
- No name-calling EVER
- Focusing on the issue not the person
- Following up after resolving
We actually schedule "relationship check-ins" every 2 weeks to discuss any simmering issues before they blow up!
@Robert_Martinez Scheduled check-ins are brilliant! Though I'd warn couples with trust issues - this can backfire if one partner uses it to "store up grievances." My therapist suggested "living in the moment" with issues instead. Different strokes! Maybe depends on your conflict style?
well, i prefer the classic silent treatment, after some time, we get to miss each other and everything back to normal. i think this gives the partner space to cope with their feelings then get back