Helping couples deal with relationship ambivalence

Abstract

To be or not to be in this relationship. that is the question. This chapter discusses relationship ambivalence and provides suggestions and strategies to help couples work through this issue. Given that the adult life cycle has been lengthening in recent years, and consequently, the time spent in relationships, the clinical issue of ambivalence presents itself with more frequency in therapy. Individuals are often asking themselves Should I stay or should I go? and struggling to find an answer to this question. This chapter discusses the subjective experience of ambivalence and the development of five main skills therapists can employ to help the couple or the individual work through the ambivalence. A case study illustrates the dilemmas associated with ambivalence as well as the application of therapeutic techniques.