When it comes to conflict, most of us just want to shut it down. But psychological research is increasingly taking a different approach to discord, with profound implications for disputes big and small. This week, we kick off our Relationships 2.0 series by asking: what if we stop trying to eliminate conflict and instead ask, how can we do conflict better?
Jul 2025
Conflict in Relationships: Why We React the Way We Do (And How to Change It)
Conflict is part of every relationship, but how we handle it is what really matters.In the final episode of our mini-series with cognitive neuroscientist Alexis Fernandez-Preiksa, we’re diving into what’s actually happening in your brain during conflict, and how your patterns, re ... Show More
45m 17s
Feb 2024
Good Conflict: How Healthy Disagreements Build Stronger Connections
Think conflict is bad? Think again!In this episode of Take Out Therapy, we’re flipping the script on conflict and exploring how it can actually be a powerful tool for growth and connection. Avoiding conflict might feel easier, but it can hold you back from deeper, more meaningful ... Show More
19m 14s
Nov 2022
119. How Work Can Help You Integrate Conflicting Parts of Yourself
<p>#119: This episode is a deep dive into the relationship between Internal Family Systems (IFS), a growing method of psychotherapy, and OptimalWork. We can view friction in life as different parts of us locked in conflict, ultimately seeking to avoid a painful emotion. Through w ... Show More
33m 22s
Mar 2023
104. 3 Essential Skills for Managing Conflict
<p>Have you ever wished to be heard, that you felt safe to bring up difficult topics, or maybe you just wanted you and your partner to be good role models for your kids when it comes to how to fight?</p>
<p>If you have, this episode is for you. </p>
<p>In this episode, we cover a ... Show More
16m 48s