Conflict resolution requires absolute equality where neither partner uses supremacy tactics - no one gets to 'win' through intimidation, manipulation, or gender-based authority claims.

Violence during conflicts - throwing objects, aggressive door slamming, threatening gestures, or intimidating behavior - escalates normal disagreements into abuse requiring immediate intervention.

Both partners must share responsibility for creating and resolving conflicts rather than one always initiating difficult conversations while the other avoids or refuses engagement.

Reject toxic dynamics where one partner handles all emotional labor while the other dismisses concerns as 'nagging' or refuses conflict resolution participation.

Protect your relationship from family members who insert themselves into conflicts, take sides, or offer unwanted advice that undermines private couple problem-solving.

Support your partner's right to express concerns during conflicts without dismissing feelings, minimizing experiences, or shutting down conversations to avoid relationship work.

Create safe communication spaces where both can express needs and frustrations without fear of retaliation, character attacks, or having vulnerabilities weaponized later.

Financial disagreements require full transparency about money concerns and priorities rather than unilateral decisions or hiding financial information from your partner.

Domestic violence escalation often begins with property destruction or wall-punching during arguments - these behaviors warn of potential physical violence requiring professional intervention.

Healthy conflict resolution means both partners take turns initiating conversations, listening actively, apologizing when wrong, and working toward solutions rather than just venting anger.

During arguments, focus on the specific issue at hand rather than bringing up past mistakes, character attacks, or threats to leave the relationship.

Never use your partner's vulnerabilities, fears, or secrets as weapons during conflicts - this destroys trust and emotional safety permanently.

Take breaks during heated arguments to cool down and think clearly, but always return to resolve the issue rather than pretending it never happened.

Learn to apologize effectively by acknowledging your specific mistakes, expressing genuine remorse, and committing to concrete changes in behavior.

Fight fairly by using 'I' statements about your feelings rather than 'you' statements that sound like accusations and put your partner on the defensive.

Recognize when external stress (work, money, family) is creating tension between you and address the real source rather than taking frustration out on each other.

Some disagreements don't need to be won - learn to agree to disagree on non-essential matters while finding compromise on issues that affect your shared life.

Seek counseling or mediation for recurring conflicts that you can't resolve together - getting help is a sign of commitment, not failure.