Dr. John Gottman’s research has been able to accurately predict divorce more than 90% of the time. By carefully studying how couples interact with each
other, he identified what are known as “The Four Horsemen of the (Relationship) Apocalypse”. These four patterns of communication (criticism, contempt,
defensiveness and stonewalling) can lead to the end of a relationship. However, understanding these “horsemen” and how to eliminate them can help willing
partners get back on track.
In your initial post, write a vignette vignette – Alternative Formats (real or fictional) that depicts (but DOES NOT identify) one of the horsemen. You can draw
from your own experiences or your observations of interactions between other couples. If you don’t have any experience with these patterns of behavior, you
can write a fictional vignette. REMEMBER: Do NOT identify which “horseman” is being demonstrated in your vignette!
