Growing up, individuals had experiences of social negotiations through playing freely on the streets, making rules, breaking rules, forming alliances, and learning unprompted social negotiation. However, the current contactless existence and lack of face-to-face interactions have reduced the opportunities for these social negotiation experiences, leaving individuals unprepared for conflictual situations in relationships. In modern frictionless on-demand lifestyles, where relationships involve inconsistencies and contradictions, having social negotiation skills is crucial for navigating conflicts and developing meaningful connections.
Couples have arguments over many topics. However, it’s through resolving conflict that both people in the relationship feel heard and seen. Psychotherapist, relationship expert, and New York Times-bestselling author Esther Perel says conflict when navigated skillfully can lead to growth, resilience, and a stronger bond. In this conversation with John Donvan, Perel discusses her new online course, shares her experience working with different relationship types, strategies for transforming conflict into a constructive dialogue, and the importance of validating both sides’ perspectives.
Our guest: Esther Perel, Psychotherapist and New York Times bestselling author
Emmy award-winning journalist John Donvan moderates
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices