A Couple's Guide to Communication

Practical skills and techniques that are based on how distressed and non-distressed couples differ in their problem-solving methods. Often used as a supplementary text for college counseling courses.Content Highlights1 Listening and Validation -- checking impact with intent, giving feedback, summarizing2 Leveling -- expressing feelings, being more assertive, using a suggestion box3 Editing -- being courteous and considerate, focusing on the present situation4 Negotiating Agreements -- gripe time, agenda building, family meeting, resistance to change5 Hidden Agendas -- caring, power, hidden agendas as filters6 Solving Your Sexual Problems -- increasing sexual communication, enhancement of sensuality7 Getting Through a Crisis -- setting ground rules, etiquette for the home, temporary agreements8 Making a Good Thing Better -- active listening, sharing dreams9 Getting Out of a Bad Marriage -- considering divorce and separation, alternatives to divorce, child rearingThe book contains practice exercises, inventories, an assessment self-test, and a troubleshooting guide.John Gottman is the author of 'A Couple's Guide to Communication', published 1979 under ISBN 9780878221271 and ISBN 0878221271.