Which of the following is a sign of healthy problem-solving practice in marriage?

• A. Establishing dialogue with perpetual problems, Skills for solving problems, Positive affect, Physiological soothing.
• B. Silent treatment, withdrawal, and avoidance.
• C. Ignoring perpetual problems to reduce conflict.
• D. Relying on one person to solve every issue.

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is that healthy problem-solving in marriage is collaborative, balanced, and skilled. In Gottman theory, couples face perpetual problems by talking them through rather than avoiding them, using structured problem-solving techniques, staying engaged with each other through positive emotion, and soothing each other when tension rises. When both partners participate in dialogue about the ongoing issues, apply concrete steps to solve problems, keep a warm tone, and help each other calm down, the relationship stays connected even amid disagreements.

So the strongest sign of healthy problem-solving practice is when the couple engages in those elements together: open dialogue about perpetual problems, clear problem-solving strategies, positive interaction, and mutual soothing. In contrast, patterns like silent treatment or withdrawal shut down communication, ignoring perpetual problems amounts to avoidance that never resolves what’s needed, and relying on one person to fix every issue creates an unfair, unsustainable dynamic and undermines teamwork.