Reconcilable Differences » (New Edition)

Andrew Christensen, PhD, is Professor of Psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles. His research, sponsored by the National Institute of Mental Health, examines the effects of couple therapy. He has published widely on couple conflict and therapy.

Neil S. Jacobson, PhD, was Professor of Psychology at the University of Washington until his death in 1999. The author or editor of numerous publications, Dr. Jacobson was one of the world's most widely cited family therapists.

Every couple has arguments, but what happens when recurring battles begin to feel like full-scale war? Do you retreat in hurt and angry silence, hoping that a spouse who "just doesn't get it" will eventually see things your way? Spend the time between skirmishes gathering evidence that you're right? Demand some immediate changes--or else? Whether due to innate personality traits or emotional vulnerabilities, there are some aspects of our behavior that are difficult to alter. But these differences do not have to get in the way of healthy, happy, and long-lasting romance. This practical guide offers new solutions for couples frustrated by continual attempts to make each other change. Aided by thought-provoking exercises and lots of real-life examples, readers will learn why they keep having the same fights again and again; how to keep small incompatibilities from causing big problems; and how true acceptance can restore health to their relationships.

Booknews

Developers of Integrative Couple Therapy offer solutions for couples frustrated by continual attempts to make each other change, centering on accepting differences, and cultivating compassion and respect. They dissect typical relationship conflicts, and give examples of ways to acknowledge each other's emotional vulnerabilities and personality differences. For general readers. Christensen is a professor of psychology at UCLA. Jacobson was a professor of psychology at the University of Washington. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)