In this case study, we will investigate the dynamics of the relationship between Marci and Jeff, a couple experiencing difficulties connecting. We will use the Gottman Method to investigate their family history, how they see their relationship, and their perspectives on one another. In addition, we will construct a conceptualization and treatment plan based on the Gottman Method to address the underlying problems contributing to the pain in their relationship.
Case Study
The couple Marci and Jeff Marci, who is thirty years old and a lawyer, are now working full-time while attending graduate school part-time to get her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy. Jeff, now 35 years old and with a degree, has been jobless for some time and spends much of his time playing excessive amounts of computer games. Marci thinks Jeff does not value her contributions since she thinks he takes them for granted. On the other side, Jeff has feelings of abandonment and loneliness and often finds that he lacks drive. More than four months had passed since the couple last engaged in quality time together, despite Marci’s best efforts to organize date evenings for the pair. Marci wants to raise a family, but she is concerned that Jeff does not have the same level of ambition and devotion as she does.
Treatment Model and Conceptualization
Method According to Gottman, the Gottman Method is a method of couples therapy that focuses on boosting relationship pleasure and creating long-lasting, healthy relationships. Drs established it. John and Julie Gottman, both psychiatrists, have gained widespread recognition in recent years. This approach places a strong emphasis on the cultivation of friendships, the management of interpersonal problems, and the development of a shared meaning within relationships.
Family Background and Relationship Perception
Understanding the underlying difficulties requires a deep dive into Marci and Jeff’s respective familial histories and their perspectives on their relationship. We would analyze their expectations, communication patterns, and emotional reactions within the context of their relationship through the perspective of the Gottman Method. This analysis will focus on how their familial background and attachment types have shaped their relationship. In addition to this, we would investigate their perceptions of one another in order to obtain comprehension of their prerequisites, preferences, and worries.
Conceptualization and Treatment Plan
Based on the Gottman Method’s concepts, our conceptualization of the problem in Marci and Jeff’s relationship revolves around the following key issues:
Enhancing Communication and Conflict Resolution: Using systematic communication activities, such as the “Gottman-Rapoport Intervention,” may increase a person’s capacity to communicate their needs, listen attentively, and constructively handle disputes. Acquiring skills in conflict management, such as “soft startups” and “repair attempts,” may be beneficial to both the process of understanding the problem and finding a solution.
Lack of Emotional Connection
The absence of an emotional connection in Marci and Jeff’s relationship contributes to feelings of isolation and neglect. Since the beginning of this year, they have not had the opportunity to enjoy one other’s company for more than four months, and Marci’s efforts to organize date evenings have been fruitless. The fact that they do not participate in activities together and have little time to spend together in quality has led to their increasing estrangement. Interventions that foster affection and appreciation are indicated as a solution to this problem.
Building Fondness and Admiration
Motivate Marci and Jeff to show gratitude and affection for one another by encouraging them. This may be accomplished by engaging in routine activities such as drafting “appreciation lists” or participating in “I appreciate” rituals, in which participants voice good traits or behaviors that they respect in one another in the company of others. Assist them in recognizing and concentrating on their relationship’s good features and qualities to cultivate a feeling of connection and appreciation for one another.
Unresolved Conflict
Marci and Jeff have been avoiding addressing the problems that have been causing tension in their relationship, resulting in resentment and communication failures. The tension in their relationship is exacerbated by their expectations about jobs, and their plans for the future have not been satisfied. Strategies for effective communication and conflict resolution are essential to the process of addressing their concerns.
Divergent Goals and Motivations
Marci desires to start a family but has concerns about Jeff’s lack of motivation and commitment. His unemployment and lack of ambition raise doubts about their future together. Establishing shared meaning and addressing their goals and motivations help align their vision for the future.
Conclusion
By implementing the Gottman Method interventions outlined above, Marci and Jeff can work towards building a stronger emotional connection, improving communication and conflict resolution, establishing shared meaning and goals, and developing effective coping mechanisms. These strategies will help them address the underlying issues in their relationship and move towards a healthier, more fulfilling partnership.
References
Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2015). The seven principles for making marriage work. Harmony.
write