All relationships experience conflict at some point in time.

This excellent video featured below, with relationship expert Dr Sue Johnson and expert developmental psychologist Dr Edward Tronick, gives a great insight into what that conflict is all about and how both partners can heal conflict. Understanding what goes wrong, and why it goes wrong, in cycles of conflict is the important first step to decreasing conflict and improving relationships.

Dr Sue Johnson and Dr Edward Tronick outline the fascinating parallel between the disconnection of a parent and child as being similar to that of disconnection which occurs in romantic relationships. Dr Johnson says "the drama of romantic bonding is an adult version of the bond between parent and child."

These are their basic moves in the "emotional dance" that is conflict and re-bonding;

1. Reach (invite connection)

2. Protest - Push

3. Turn away

4. Melt down

5. Reconnect

Enjoy this video and have a think about how the dance may play out in your life!