"Many partners assume that if they love each other enough, cooperation will simply happen in its own time. But research, in recent years, has introduced an important clarification: Good relationships support better problem-solving, and strong problem-solving, in turn, reinforces the relationship. The two processes form a loop. If we pull gently on one end, the other will inevitably come undone, too."
"She proposes that turning points - moments that interrupt the expected flow of interaction - are the crucibles in which relationships are reshaped. A turning point, according to Olekalns, can be: Dramatic, such as a threat, a walk-out or an unexpected political shock Subtle, like a sharp tone or a microaggression Mundane, like anger that flares too quickly, logistical delays or simply the pressures of time"
Good relationships support better problem-solving, and strong problem-solving in turn reinforces the relationship, creating a mutually reinforcing loop. Negotiation functions as the scaffolding of intimate life by shaping how partners resolve conflicts and make joint decisions. Turning points—dramatic, subtle, or mundane—interrupt expected interaction and reshape relationships by creating turbulence. Such moments unsettle assumptions, trigger uncertainty, erode interpretive generosity, and weaken routine maintenance behaviors. A single moment of stress can derail practiced patterns of gentle handling. Partners can reduce harm by adopting strategies that reframe stress, coordinate responses, and protect shared problem-solving capacity.
Read at Psychology Today
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]