What are 'resolvable problems' in Gottman's conflict regulation?

What are 'resolvable problems' in Gottman's conflict regulation?

• A. Issues that can be addressed through soft startups and compromise
• B. Intractable differences
• C. Problems that require divorce
• D. Financial disputes only

Answer: (A)

In Gottman’s approach, solvable (resolvable) problems are disagreements that can be fixed through good communication and joint problem-solving. The best choice describes issues that partners can address by starting the conversation softly and working toward a compromise, using techniques like gentle startups and mutual concession. These problems are typically situational and time-limited, such as day-to-day hassles or logistical annoyances, and they can be solved when both partners engage constructively. Differences that are perpetual or intractable aren’t easily resolved because they stem from fundamental personality or value clashes. Those require ongoing dialogue and acceptance rather than a one-time fix. Choices focused only on finances or on needing divorce miss the idea that resolvable problems are about workable solutions through skillful interaction, not about an ultimate, unchangeable outcome.

In Gottman’s approach, solvable (resolvable) problems are disagreements that can be fixed through good communication and joint problem-solving. The best choice describes issues that partners can address by starting the conversation softly and working toward a compromise, using techniques like gentle startups and mutual concession. These problems are typically situational and time-limited, such as day-to-day hassles or logistical annoyances, and they can be solved when both partners engage constructively.

Differences that are perpetual or intractable aren’t easily resolved because they stem from fundamental personality or value clashes. Those require ongoing dialogue and acceptance rather than a one-time fix. Choices focused only on finances or on needing divorce miss the idea that resolvable problems are about workable solutions through skillful interaction, not about an ultimate, unchangeable outcome.