What is a bid in Gottman theory?

• A. A Bid Is Any Attempt To Connect With Your Partner
• B. A Bid Is A Sarcastic Remark
• C. A Bid Is A Request To End A Discussion
• D. A Bid Is A Negotiation About Chores

Answer: (A)

In Gottman theory, a bid is any attempt to connect with your partner. It can be a smile, a question, a touch, a joke, or even a sigh—anything that asks for your partner’s attention and a response. The key is the intent to connect, not the particular form. How your partner responds to that bid matters: turning toward indicates connection and builds closeness, while turning away or turning against signals disconnection. That broad, inclusive idea is why this option is the best fit. The other descriptions narrow the concept to a single form or a specific goal, which doesn’t capture the full idea of what a bid is.