Description

How to Use Conflict to Heal and Deepen Your Relationship

Conflict is a natural part of any intimate relationship. Yet most couples either avoid it or try to smooth over their differences.

Either way, integrity is compromised and growth is stunted. Gritty, often irreverent, and always practical, Rock the Boat challenges couples not to flee from conflict but to use it as an opportunity for a profound transformation – one that affirms each partner’s individuality while forging a greater trust and a deeper bond.

Rock the Boat encourages both people to stand by what they need and who they are, but to do so with compassion rather than competitiveness or vengefulness. This is the purpose of an intimate relationship: to create an atmosphere where both people learn to grow up by appreciating each other’s needs in a caring and mature way.

Author Resmaa Menakem addresses key factors that help make this happen, including accepting discomfort and uncertainty; being honest and open about sex, money, kids, and in-laws; recognizing when conflict might escalate into violence or abuse; and, when appropriate, finding and working with a good therapist. With this book he offers an honest, unflinching look at what actually works to transform relationships.

About the Author:

Resmaa Menakem is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in couples therapy and domestic violence prevention. He has served in leadership roles at Tubman Family Alliance and African American Family Services, both in Minneapolis, and as a family counselor for civilian contractors in Afghanistan. A former radio talk-show host, he has appearec on Oprah and Dr. Phil as an expert on domestic violence and couples in conflict.