Christian marriage partners must avoid what comes naturally if they are to survive the inevitable conflict, which results in separateness. Unless we exchange worldly ways of thinking, behaving, and reacting for godly ways, we will experience separation in our relationships. Paul gives three suggestions. Based on the last twenty years of empirical research on marriage, experts have identified variables that are highly predictive of relationship distress and breakdown. This longitudinal study began in 1980 with 135 couples and continues to this day.
Specific variables predict future distress or divorce.
Also, even though positive communication is significant, the results demonstrate that damaging interactions have far greater predictive value on the outcome of relationship stability and satisfaction. Researchers have now identified specific variables that predict future distress or divorce with greater than 90 percent accuracy. Based on how couples handle conflict. Four highly significant predictors involve four negative ways of interacting. Withdrawal is the automatic tendency to move away from any perceived conflict.