Which of the Four Horsemen represents criticism in marital interactions?

The concept of criticism as one of the Four Horsemen in marital interactions originates from John Gottman's research on relationships. Criticism specifically refers to attacking a partner's character or personality rather than addressing a specific behavior or situation. It is characterized by a general condemnation and often includes words like "always" or "never."

In this context, identifying criticism is crucial because it often leads to escalating conflict. By framing a discussion around an issue in a way that questions the partner's overall worth or competence, it creates defensiveness and resentment. Unlike other forms of communication, like expressing a complaint or concern about a particular situation, criticism can be detrimental to a partner's self-esteem and the overall health of the relationship.

The other terms—defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling—represent different negative interaction styles that can also harm relationships, but they do not encapsulate the specific nature of criticism. Instead, they reflect reactions to criticism or emotional disengagement, rather than the act of criticizing itself. Understanding this distinction is important for recognizing unhealthy patterns in communication within relationships and applying Gottman's methods for fostering healthier interaction styles.