56 - Anatomy of an Argument - How Conflict Can Be an Opportunity for Growth

From Relationship Renovation: Marriage Advice, Intimacy & Couples Communication EJ and Tarah Kerwin

Couples often come to therapy because they are fed up with patterns of conflict that leave them both frustrated, alone, and hopeless. When couples end up in repetitive arguments, they increasingly lose confidence in their ability to stay connected in a difficult time. They build resentment and eventually become more emotionally and physically distant. When couples learn to listen, become aware, and empathize with their partner's experience, moments of conflict can become learning experiences where they gain confidence in each other.

In this episode, Tarah and EJ share a recent argument between them. They use this personal experience to help couples understand why conflict happens in a relationship. They explore the conscious and unconscious choices, which pull them apart or bring them together. They show that by developing self-awareness and making intentional choices, a difficult moment can be an opportunity to learn and grow together.

Episode Transcript