In Gottman’s framework, what are the three possible responses to a bid?

In Gottman’s framework, what are the three possible responses to a bid?

• A. Turning Toward, Turning Away, Turning Against
• B. Turning Toward, Turned Away, Turned Against
• C. Toward, Away, Against
• D. Turn Toward, Turn Away, Turn Against

Answer: (A)

In Gottman’s framework, a bid is any attempt to connect or seek a positive response from your partner. The three ways a partner can respond to that bid are Turning Toward, Turning Away, and Turning Against. Turning Toward is a positive, engaged response that acknowledges the bid and shows interest, which builds closeness. Turning Away is when the bid is ignored or avoided, signaling distance and reducing responsiveness. Turning Against is a hostile or antagonistic reaction, such as sarcasm or blame, which damages connection and trust. The option that names these exact three responses—Turning Toward, Turning Away, Turning Against—fits Gottman’s standard terminology, making it the correct choice. The other options omit or alter the key word Turning, or use terms that don’t align with the precise labels Gottman uses for these three reaction types.

In Gottman’s framework, a bid is any attempt to connect or seek a positive response from your partner. The three ways a partner can respond to that bid are Turning Toward, Turning Away, and Turning Against. Turning Toward is a positive, engaged response that acknowledges the bid and shows interest, which builds closeness. Turning Away is when the bid is ignored or avoided, signaling distance and reducing responsiveness. Turning Against is a hostile or antagonistic reaction, such as sarcasm or blame, which damages connection and trust. The option that names these exact three responses—Turning Toward, Turning Away, Turning Against—fits Gottman’s standard terminology, making it the correct choice. The other options omit or alter the key word Turning, or use terms that don’t align with the precise labels Gottman uses for these three reaction types.