What is the Gottman Card Deck and how is it used?

• A. A collection of prompts or activities used during sessions or between sessions to spark positive interactions and skill-building.
• B. A set of legal agreements for relationship boundaries.
• C. A diagnostic checklist for psychiatric conditions.
• D. A method of grading couples' performance.

Answer: (A)

The Gottman Card Deck is a collection of prompts, questions, and short activities designed to spark positive interactions and help couples build essential relationship skills. Therapists use it during sessions or give it as between-session “homework” so partners practice communication, empathy, appreciation, and repair after conflicts. Each card invites a specific topic or exercise—like sharing appreciation, exploring each other’s inner world, or practicing calm, constructive conversations—grounded in Gottman principles. It isn’t a legal agreement, a diagnostic checklist, or a way to grade performance; it’s a practical tool to foster meaningful dialogue and skill-building, used flexibly to fit a couple’s goals and to cultivate healthier patterns over time.