Transcript Communication Strategies in Relationships

Communication Strategies
in Relationships
Most important thing in a
relationship
Four Harmful
Communication Strategies
Holding grudges
Using power to control the other
Transferring blame
Using the silent treatment
Holding Grudges
Newly weds may not express their true
feelings - keep them bottled up
Anything can set off explosion
Avoid this by discussing things as they
occur
Use “I” messages
Using Power to Control the
Other
“If you loved me you wouldn’t …”
Also called test of love
Partners should do things for each other
no strings attached
People cannot change themselves just
because they are married
Transferring Blame
Blame your partner for something you
have done
Make the spouse a scapegoat
Happens when person cannot take
responsibility for his/her actions, feeling
or behaviors
The Silent Treatment
You are so angry and upset, you stop
communicating altogether
Sometimes useful if you need time to
cool off before speaking
Harmful when it goes on for days
Using silence to manipulate
Problem Solving in Marriage
Cannot live together without some
conflicts