Summary of Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work

John Gottman’s “Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work” is a practical guide to creating a strong and lasting relationship. It is based on Gottman’s research on thousands of couples and provides advice on how to identify and resolve conflicts, increase intimacy, and build trust. The seven principles include: 1) enhancing love maps, 2) nurture fondness and admiration, 3) turn towards rather than away from each other, 4) accept influence, 5) solve solvable conflicts, 6) overcome gridlock, and 7) create shared meaning. Gottman offers tools and advice for couples on how to apply these principles in their own relationships. He also provides exercises to help couples recognize and manage their own emotions and those of their partner.