Transforming stress to happiness: Positive couple therapy with distressed couples
Year: 2021
Type: article
Abstract: Many romantic couples experience challenges at some point in their relationship, which generally escalates the tension in relationships. Although misunderstandings and conflict between partners are unavoidable, distressed couples can work through their problems effectively and compassionately that might lead to loving relationships. Thus, the purpose of this study is to review the features of distressed couples and offer a positive couple therapy model for positive and meaningful change in negative circumstances. Positive couple therapy fosters couples’ positive feelings through positive interaction, which are essential to develop and maintain satisfying relationships. To heal distressed couples, this article structured the positive psychology therapy model in three phases: Phase one involves rebuilding the relationship with increasing cohesion and positive behaviors between couples. In phase two, the couple therapist works to identify negative communication patterns and improve positive couple communication. Lastly, the final phase is designed for the maintenance of change, which includes practicing new communication patterns in stressful situations and couples’ reflection of new experiences to each other. Each phase consisted of specific interventions such as three good things, best possible future self, strengths and fulfilled genogram, emotional bank account, and loving-kindness meditation. Along with these interventions, this paper offers practical suggestions for mental health professionals, who work with distressed couples, to help distressed couples to improve their couple’s functioning as well as happiness.
Author: Emel Genç
Institution: Bartin University
Language: English
Subfield: Social Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W3204350993