How to Resolve Conflicts in Marriage: Tips from a Certified Mediator | ActualHuman.com

Hi, I’m Dave, a certified conflict mediator specializing in Civil Court and Family Court mediation. Conflict is inevitable in any relationship, especially in marriage. Spending more time together naturally leads to more opportunities for disagreements. But here's the good news: most conflicts have a solution. In fact, in many disputes, there’s already 90% agreement—it’s just the final 10% that causes the most tension.

Often, the reason for conflict isn’t necessarily about the issue at hand, but about pride, principle, or a sense of independence. In this video, I’ll share how to approach these situations with a team mindset, focused on finding a solution rather than proving who’s right.

One of the most effective tools in conflict resolution is simply listening. Most of the time, the person in conflict just wants to be heard. They don’t need you to agree, they just want their thoughts and feelings acknowledged. The hardest yet simplest thing to do is give your partner a chance to speak freely without interrupting.

You don’t have to agree with everything, but let them vent. Sometimes, just getting it off their chest is enough to resolve the issue. The key is to make them feel heard and valued. Afterward, you can discuss the details, but avoid shutting down their perspective too quickly.

The best part? When you let someone express their feelings, they often start to realize the issues themselves, sometimes talking themselves out of their position. You’ll create a deeper level of trust and understanding by being a supportive listener.

Remember, effective conflict resolution isn’t about winning—it’s about understanding each other and working together. If you’re struggling with conflict or want personalized advice, visit ActualHuman.com for one-on-one consultations with licensed experts.

Thanks for watching!