The document discusses effective communication and conflict resolution strategies, emphasizing the use of prepositions like 'at,' 'to,' and 'with.' It recommends using 'I' statements to express feelings, avoiding absolute language, and framing requests rather than demands. Listening skills, such as acknowledging and validating, are essential for healthy interactions, particularly during conflict.

1. Prepositions of Communication
 3 Prepositions we use when talking:
 AT
 TO
 WITH

2. Internal Emotional States
Bruce
Mary
P(parent)
P (parent)
A(adult)
A(adult)
C(child)
C(child)

3. Internal Emotional States
(high conflict)
Bruce
Mary
P(parent){critical}
P (parent){critical}
A(adult)
A(adult)
C(child)
C(child)

4. Internal Emotional States
(high conflict)
Bruce
P(parent){critical}
Mary
c (child)

5. Internal Emotional States
(healthy communication)
Bruce
A(adult)
Mary
A(adult)

6. Use “I” Statements
I feel angry when you….
I was disappointed
the other night when
you….
I was sad when you….

7. Absolute Language
Do not use these words with your
partner
NEVER
ALWAYS
EVERY
ALL
NO
ONE
EVERY ONE

8. Request Language
 “I would like”
 “I would appreciate”
 “If you could do that, it would be great”
 Requests are not demands—remember you
want to talk WITH your partner not to or at

9. Use Listening Skills
 Listen—HEAR what’s being said
 Acknowledge—understand what’s being said
 Validate—communicate that understanding

10. Conflict Resolution
Bruce
Mary
P(parent){critical}
P (parent){critical}
A(adult)
A(adult)
C(child)
C(child)

11. Conflict Resolution
 Don’t Argue—takes 2 to argue
 If tempers flare take time out
 Use “I” language to discuss conflict
 Use validation/acknowledgement to let
partner know that you understand---EVEN IF
YOU DISAGREE

12. Challenge
 What do you want in your relationship?
What you have?
Something better?
 Conflict=change
www.changeispossible.org