Thursday 01/January/2026 – 05:15 AM
A large number of couples suffer from recurrence Disagreements This may threaten the stability of the relationship and sometimes lead to separation. In this context, marital psychologist Dr. Cathy Nickerson presented 7 basic questions, which she believes are able to help couples contain conflicts before they escalate and turn into complex emotional crises.
Do you have frequent disagreements with your partner?
According to what was published in the British newspaper Daily Mail, Nickerson explained that these questions fall within what she calls a relationship audit, which is a periodic review that allows the two parties to discuss the essential topics in their shared life, such as financial matters, intimacy, stress levels, ambitions, health status, and family boundaries, in addition to future goals.
She added that committing to asking these questions on a regular basis enhances understanding and reduces the chances of separation, noting that allocating annual time for frank dialogue helps couples maintain balance and mutual support, and move together in the same direction before the gaps between them widen.
Avoid difficult discussions
The psychologist also warned that avoiding difficult discussions for fear of conflict may lead, over time, to the accumulation of resentment, anger, and emotional distance, which are factors that are among the main causes of the breakdown of relationships. On the other hand, she stressed that communication problems are common, especially with the pressures of daily life, but the way conflict is managed is the decisive factor in whether the relationship survives or declines.
Nickerson stressed the importance of openly discussing financial issues, intimacy, and daily stress, explaining that ignoring these issues may weaken the bond between the two partners, while conscious dialogue helps to better understand psychological and emotional needs and share responsibilities.
At the conclusion of her speech, she called on couples to set a common goal and work to achieve it together, stressing that strong relationships are built on continuous communication and a sense of mutual security, not on avoiding disagreements. She concluded by saying that courageous and honest conversations, no matter how difficult, are the true foundation for continued love and the prosperity of relationships.
