Week 4 - Couples Therapy Basics - Improved Version

Why is couples therapy used instead of only individual therapy?

Problems are maintained by interaction patterns, not just individuals.

What is the primary focus of couples therapy?

The relationship as a system.

What is the overall goal of couples therapy?

Improve relationship functioning and individual well-being.

How are relationships conceptualized across couples therapy models?

As dynamic, reciprocal systems where both partners influence patterns.

What contextual factors must be considered in couples therapy?

Culture, gender, power, and stress.

Who does the therapist align with in couples therapy?

The relationship, not one partner.

What does “assessment” mean in couples therapy?

An ongoing, collaborative process used to guide treatment.

What perspectives are included in couples therapy assessment?

Both joint (together) and individual perspectives.

How is assessment used in treatment planning?

It informs goals and interventions.

What must assessment balance in couples therapy?

Strengths and problem areas.

What is assessed when examining communication in couples?

Patterns of conflict and interaction cycles.

Why assess emotional regulation in couples?

To understand attachment needs and reactivity.

Why assess relationship satisfaction and commitment?

To evaluate stability and motivation for change.

Why assess power, control, and decision-making?

To understand relational dynamics and equity.

Why assess individual mental health in couples therapy?

Individual issues directly impact the relationship.

In heterosexual couples, who is more likely to initiate conflict discussions?

Women/wives.

In heterosexual couples, who is more likely to withdraw or stonewall?

Men/husbands.

What contributes to gender differences in conflict patterns?

Socialization and physiology.

Why is withdrawal clinically important in couples therapy?

It is strongly linked to relationship dissatisfaction.

What is a core clinical goal in couples therapy?

Identify and interrupt negative interaction cycles.

Why should therapists reduce physiological arousal during conflict?

High arousal escalates conflict and blocks productive communication.

What are “repair attempts” in couples therapy?

Efforts to de-escalate conflict and reconnect.

What is a “soft start-up”?

A gentle, non-blaming way to begin difficult conversations.

Why is building positive affect important in couples therapy?

It increases emotional safety and connection.

How should assessment be used during treatment (not just intake)?

To guide targeted, ongoing interventions.

What should therapy focus on besides reducing problems?

Building strengths.

What brain pattern is more common in males?

More within-hemisphere connections (efficiency, spatial/motor).

How is testosterone linked to relationship behavior?

Increases competitiveness; stress may lead to withdrawal.

What brain pattern is more common in females?

More cross-hemisphere connections (emotion + language integration).

How are estrogen and progesterone linked to relationships?

Greater emotional sensitivity and attunement.

What conflict pattern is more common in females?

Pursuing and communicating.

What conflict pattern is more common in males?

Withdrawing under stress.

What matters more than biological sex in relationships?

Personality, attachment style, and trauma history.