What is the effect of decreased defensiveness on communication in Gottman-informed practice?

• A. Increases trust and closeness
• B. Increases defensiveness
• C. Reduces openness
• D. Worsens relationship

Answer: (A)

Decreased defensiveness shifts interactions toward safety and connection. In Gottman-informed practice, defensiveness blocks empathy and responsive listening, so reducing it allows partners to feel heard and respected. When defenses soften, individuals share needs more openly, respond with empathy, and engage in constructive problem solving. This creates a ripple effect: bids for connection are met with warmth rather than pushback, trust grows, and closeness strengthens. The other options describe outcomes opposite to this process or broader negative trends that aren’t aligned with the effect of lowered defensiveness.