| Abstract: | ABSTRACT This paper addresses the contribution of object relations theory to an understanding of marital pairs in conflict. Both insight-oriented and briefer, “here and now” communication skills enhancing approaches are informed by a psychodynamic formulation of marital discord model. Utilized frequently in the treatment of individuals, the relevance of a psychodynamic formulation of conflict in couples is explored in detail for complex assessment, treatment planning, and as a guide in predicting the nature of the therapeutic alliance. This model, utilizing object relations theory, is presented conceptually and clinically with reference to a marital therapy case that required a variety of treatment strategies. |
