Turning toward in the context of marital relationships refers to

Turning toward in the context of marital relationships refers to

• A. Responding negatively to bids for attention
• B. Responding positively to a partner's bids for attention, affection, or support
• C. Withdrawing from the partner during arguments
• D. Ignoring bids for attention

Answer: (B)

Turning toward means responding positively to a partner’s bids for attention, affection, or support. A bid is any small or big attempt to connect—like eye contact, a question, a touch, or a request for help. When you turn toward, you acknowledge the bid with warmth and engagement, which strengthens closeness, trust, and the sense that you’re emotionally available. Even simple acts—listening attentively, offering supportive words, or showing appreciation—count as turning toward and they add up over time to a more satisfying relationship. In contrast, turning away (ignoring the bid) or turning against (responding with criticism or contempt) undermines intimacy.

Turning toward means responding positively to a partner’s bids for attention, affection, or support. A bid is any small or big attempt to connect—like eye contact, a question, a touch, or a request for help. When you turn toward, you acknowledge the bid with warmth and engagement, which strengthens closeness, trust, and the sense that you’re emotionally available. Even simple acts—listening attentively, offering supportive words, or showing appreciation—count as turning toward and they add up over time to a more satisfying relationship. In contrast, turning away (ignoring the bid) or turning against (responding with criticism or contempt) undermines intimacy.