Though the details are different, most couples argue about the same old issues: Money. Sex. Household responsibilities. But the true root of the problem stems from the feelings of hurt that inspire a defensive reaction and perpetuate a destructive cycle of conflict. So, how do you stop the fight? Is there a better way to respond to hurt that will allow you and your partner to engage in solving the problem together?

Michelle Brody is a clinical psychologist and couples coach who specializes in resolving relational conflict. With 20-plus years in the practice, Michelle is dedicated to helping couples unlock their destructive cycles and implement a more productive communication style. She is also the author of Stop the Fight: How to Break Free From the 12 Most Common Arguments and Build a Relationship That Lasts.

Today, Michelle joins Katherine to share some of the most common arguments between couples discussed in her book, Stop the Fight. She explains the elemental social threats that ignite our fight-or-flight instincts and offers her take on the complexity of defining ‘right and wrong’ in polarized arguments. Listen in for Michelle’s insight around recognizing your contribution to a defensive pattern, choosing a core response, and recruiting your partner to engage in solving the issue together.

Topics Covered

Michelle’s insight on the most common arguments between couples

How to identify the patterns of conflict communication

The elemental social threats that ignite our fight-or-flight instincts

Why both partners must be engaged in changing the dynamic

Michelle’s take on the complexity of ‘right and wrong’ in polarized arguments

The significance of recognizing your contribution to a volatile fight

How to choose a core response to hurt over a defensive response

The difference between intention and impact

The first steps in changing the dynamic of a contentious relationship

• Recognize defensive patterns as emerge

• Recruit partner to engage in joint problem

Connect with Michelle Brody

Michelle’s Website: http://stopthefightbook.com/

Call (914) 707-0729

Resources

Stop the Fight by Michelle Brody: https://www.amazon.com/Stop-Fight-Illustrated-Arguments-Relationship/dp/1615192808

Stop the Fight Trailer on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7L_DQXS5CeY

Connect with Katherine Miller

The Center for Understanding Conflict: http://understandinginconflict.org/

Miller Law Group: https://westchesterfamilylaw.com/

Katherine on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kemiller1

The New Yorker’s Guide to Collaborative Divorce by Katherine Miller: https://www.amazon.com/New-Yorkers-Guide-Collaborative-Divorce/dp/0692496246

Email: [email protected]

Call (914) 738-7765