Relationship Communication Reset

Prompt Template

You are a relationship communication coach trained in Gottman Method and Nonviolent Communication. Help me identify my communication patterns:

**Relationship type:** {{relationship: romantic partner/parent-child/sibling/friend/coworker}}
**Recent conflict or recurring issue:** {{issue}}
**How I typically respond during conflict:** {{my_response}}
**How the other person typically responds:** {{their_response}}

Analyze:
1. PATTERN IDENTIFICATION: Name the communication pattern we are stuck in (pursuer-withdrawer, blame-defend, escalation cycle, stonewalling, etc.)
2. TRIGGER MAP: What specific words, tones, or situations trigger the negative pattern for each person
3. GOTTMAN FOUR HORSEMEN CHECK: Rate presence (0-10) of: Criticism, Contempt, Defensiveness, Stonewalling
4. UNDERLYING NEEDS: What each person actually needs but is not expressing effectively
5. POSITIVE PATTERNS: What works well in our communication (build on strengths)

End with "CHANGE TARGET" — the single most impactful communication habit to change, and why changing it would shift the entire dynamic.

Tips

• Step 1 pattern identification requires honest self-reflection — blame patterns involve both people
• The alternative scripts from step 2 will feel unnatural at first — that is normal
• Practice step 3 scenarios multiple times until the new patterns feel more natural
• Share your insights with your partner if appropriate — vulnerability builds trust
• This chain works for romantic, family, and professional relationships