Gottman

Gottman commonly refers to John M. Gottman, an American psychologist and relationship researcher best known for his work on marital stability and communication in intimate relationships. His longitudinal research, conducted in part at the Love Lab at the University of Washington, has influenced both clinical practice and relationship education. The name is also associated with The Gottman Institute, a research and training organization founded to disseminate his methods.

Among his key contributions is the identification of negative interaction patterns that undermine relationships, notably the four horsemen of the apocalypse—criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling—which Gottman linked to higher divorce risk. He and colleagues developed the Gottman Method for couples therapy, a structured approach that combines assessment, therapy interventions, and skills training aimed at improving communication, friendship, and conflict management. His books, including The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work, Why Marriages Succeed or Fail, and The Relationship Cure, have popularized his findings and offered practical guidance for couples.

Impact and reception: The Gottman Method is widely used by clinicians, premarital educators, and relationship programs around the world. The Gottman Institute provides training and certification for therapists and researchers, and publishes research and tools such as the Gottman Relationship Checkup. While the approach has been influential and supported by extensive data, some critics call for continued independent replication and evaluation of specific claims.