What constitutes a repair attempt and why are they critical in Gottman therapy?

• A. A repair attempt is a plan to separate; critical because it reduces conflict.
• B. A repair attempt is any action or comment that de-escalates tension after a negative exchange, e.g., apology, humor, opinion shift; critical because frequent repairs predict stability and prevent dissolution.
• C. A repair attempt is delaying the conversation; critical because it helps avoid conflict.
• D. A repair attempt is a formal contract to stay together; critical because it reduces conflict.

Answer: (B)

In Gottman therapy, a repair attempt is any action or comment that de-escalates tension after a negative exchange. It can be an apology, a moment of humor, softening how you express a disagreement, taking responsibility, or a shift in perspective that helps both partners feel heard. These moves are crucial because frequent, effective repairs predict relationship stability and reduce the likelihood of dissolution. When conflicts heat up, the ability to repair the moment keeps the interaction from spiraling into contempt or withdrawal and helps couples stay connected even when they disagree. The other options miss the core idea: planning to separate, delaying the conversation, or a formal contract to stay together are not the same as the spontaneous, relational moves that cool tension and re-engage partners in a constructive way.