The first phase of a loving relationship is characterized by chemistry, excitement, and an initial honeymoon period. After marriage, the differences between partners become apparent, leading to the need to manage conflicts and embrace each other's unique personalities and preferences. Building trust is crucial, involving being there for each other during various emotional states and life events. The conflicts of newlyweds often revolve around trust, and couples who successfully build trust tend to have a stronger and more committed relationship.
Some people are just good at building and maintaining healthy partnerships. In their 'Love Lab", the married researchers Dr John Gottman and Dr Julie Schwartz Gottman have seen how certain couples interact in ways that mean they'll happily stick together for decades.
The Gottmans join Dr Laurie Santos to explain what we can learn from these "Masters of Relationships" - so that the stresses and strains of life don't destroy our intimate partnerships.
Further reading: Fight Right: How Successful Couples Turn Conflict into Connection by Dr John Gottman and Dr Julie Schwartz Gottman.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.