Conflict is a part of most romantic relationships—and in a certain sense, if there are no arguments there may not be enough at stake. Yet certain types of chronic arguing can be a sign of abuse or dysfunction. Some psychologists point to a qualitative difference between conflict driven by disagreement and that driven by contempt. Psychologist John Gottman popularized this distinction with his suggestion that contempt is the greatest single predictor of a failed marriage, and is “poisonous to a This story is from Kinfolk Issue Twenty-Five Buy Now Related Stories Arts & Culture Issue 25 Essential Reading Transportable and transportive: the beauty of literature and its ability to absorb us in different worlds. Arts & Culture Issue 25 Lola Kirke Awkward and ascending: Actor Lola Kirke talks to Pip Usher about auditions, America and her next act. Arts & Culture Design Issue 25 Facial Recognition Finding friendly faces in functional objects. Arts & Culture Issue 25 On Narcissism Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else. Arts & Culture Issue 25 One Plus Two Is Blue With synesthesia, senses overlap: Letters become colors, colors become sounds, sounds become tastes. Arts & Culture Issue 25 Personology Want a new partner who likes ironing and poetry? Science might help you find one.
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