Conflict is a part of life - and often time relationships.
The question is how you manage conflict with your partner - and whether you're successful at finding peaceful resolutions - or you do more damage. Resentment is toxic to relationships and unhealthy conflict resolution skills can create a mountain of it.
Here are 5 signs you don't fight fair:
You name call or make character attacks (ie. "You're an idiot.")
You use global statements such as "always" or "never" (ie. You never listen to me!")
You go off topic to a long list of prior examples of the current issue
You use family traits as a weapon (ie. "You're just like your mother!")
You storm out of the house (sometimes leaving the situation all together is a good idea but using a structured "time-out" is a better choice to avoid the other feeling abandoned)
Lisa Brookes Kift, MFT The Toolbox at www.lisakifttherapy.com
I’m a Marriage and Family Therapist in Larkspur, Marin County, who does individual therapy and couples counseling. Areas of special focus include family of origin work, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress and anger management.
I’ve written numerous articles, tips and tools on mental health and relationsh...
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