Conflicts In Couple Relationships: A Global Perspective Towards Understanding And Management
Relationships, for many, represent a vital and central element in their lives. However, they can also be a source of challenges and conflicts In this article, we will try to unravel various aspects related to conflicts in couple relationships, their prevalence, and the neurophysiological, cognitive-behavioral, and humanistic-existential bases that can give rise to these conflicts. Likewise, we will analyze how these factors interrelate in the daily lives of affected couples. Our approach will also cover the treatment and monitoring of such conflicts, with the aim of presenting a comprehensive and understandable approach to the general public.
A crucial point to highlight is that an effective diagnosis of the underlying causes of conflict in a relationship is vital for the design of appropriate management and prevention strategies. Therefore, evaluating the dynamics of the relationship, the couple’s history, and current difficulties can provide invaluable information to address these problems effectively.
Regarding the incidence of relationship conflicts, various studies estimate that About 60% of couples experience some type of conflict at some stage of their relationship (Gottman & Levenson, 2000). Although the existence of conflicts is a common circumstance in any relationship, it is essential to manage them properly to prevent them from becoming a persistent source of discomfort and emotional exhaustion.
From a neurophysiological perspective, recent studies have shown that certain brain regions and neurotransmitter systems are involved in the regulation of emotions and empathy, essential processes in conflict resolution in couple relationships (Fisher, Aron & Brown, 2006). ). Particularly, The prefrontal cortex and the limbic system, which includes the amygdala and hippocampus, play a fundamental role in emotional regulation and response to conflict situations (Davidson, 2002). Furthermore, the dopaminergic and oxytocinergic systems are linked to the formation and maintenance of emotional bonds in couples (Feldman, 2012).
In the cognitive-behavioral framework, conflicts in relationships can originate from dysfunctional or inappropriate patterns of thinking and behavior, such as poor communication, lack of conflict resolution skills, and the propensity to blame the other for problems in the relationship (Cordova, 2001). Cognitive-behavioral couples therapy (CBCT) is a therapeutic method supported by scientific evidence that seeks to treat these patterns and teach couples communication and conflict resolution skills (Epstein & Baucom, 2002).
In relation to the humanistic-existential bases, conflicts in couple relationships can be connected to the self-perception of each individual and their perception of the couple, as well as their expectations and emotional needs Emotionally focused couples therapy (EFT) is a humanistic-existential approach that seeks to help couples identify and express their emotions, explore their needs and desires, and strengthen the emotional bond between partners. of the couple (Johnson, 2004).
The interaction between neurophysiological, cognitive-behavioral and humanistic-existential bases can have a considerable impact on the daily lives of couples in conflict. For example, difficulties in emotional regulation can aggravate problems with communication and conflict resolution, which in turn can affect self-perception and perception of the other, as well as relationship satisfaction. Understanding how these elements interact is crucial to comprehensively address conflicts in relationships.
couples therapies
The treatment of conflict in relationships generally includes a combined approach that integrates elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy and, in some cases, pharmacological interventions to treat possible underlying neurochemical imbalances (Markman, Stanley & Blumberg, 2010; Johnson, 2004). Support from self-help groups and education about couple dynamics may also be beneficial in improving understanding and management of conflict in daily life.
Regular follow-up with mental health professionals is essential to monitor progress and adjust treatment as necessary. Collaboration between the couple, their family, and the treatment team is crucial to ensure that specific needs are addressed and lasting improvement in quality of life and relationship satisfaction is achieved (Baucom, Shoham, Mueser, Daiuto & Stickle , 1998).
In conclusion, adequate diagnosis and treatment of conflicts in relationships are essential to improve quality of life and satisfaction in the relationship. The interrelation between the neurophysiological, cognitive-behavioral and humanistic-existential bases underlines the importance of addressing relationship conflicts in a comprehensive manner. Collaboration between the couple, their family and mental health professionals is key to achieving successful results in the treatment and monitoring of conflicts in relationships
