In relationships, people can respond to bids in three ways. One way is turning against, which is a hostile reaction toward the partner's bid. Another response is turning away, where the partner responds with silence, making the other person feel unimportant. The most effective response is turning towards, where the partner responds with interest, attention, and connection, enhancing the bond. Research shows that when one partner turns away from bids, the chances of rebidding are almost zero in failing relationships, but 22% in successful relationships.
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.
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