In this episode of the Recovering Us podcast, hosts Sandra and Dan explore the complexities of coupleship dysfunction and the journey towards recovery. They discuss various characteristics of dysfunctional couples, emphasizing the importance of communication, interdependence, and emotional safety. The conversation highlights the significance of asking for needs, exploring intimacy beyond sex, and facing problems together as a couple. They also touch on the importance of playfulness, expressing true feelings, and accepting individual responsibilities in a relationship. The episode concludes with reflections on breaking family patterns of dysfunction and the positive changes that can arise from understanding and addressing these issues.  Takeaways  The podcast aims to help couples affected by addiction and trauma. Dysfunction is common in coupleships, leading to the need for recovery. Open communication fosters intimacy and empathy in relationships. Interdependence strengthens coupleships, while enmeshment can be harmful. It's important to ask for needs to be met in a relationship. Intimacy can be expressed in many ways beyond sexual connection. Facing problems together is crucial for relationship health. Rediscovering playfulness can enhance joy in relationships. Accepting individual responsibilities reduces blame and conflict. Effective conflict resolution is key to a healthy coupleship.   Sound bites  "We are a recovering couple." "It's acceptable to ask what we need." "We've forgotten how to play together."   Chapters  00:00 Introduction to Recovering Us Podcast 01:58 Understanding Dysfunction in Coupleships 03:58 Characteristics of Dysfunctional vs. Functional Couples 09:55 Self-Medication and Emotional Expression 12:57 Interdependence vs. Codependence in Relationships 15:52 The Importance of Asking for Needs 22:51 Intimacy Beyond Sexuality 27:56 Facing Problems Together as a Team 32:53 Rediscovering Playfulness in Relationships 36:04 Expressing True Feelings 37:44 Taking Responsibility in Conflict 40:57 Healthy Conflict Resolution 42:03 Breaking Family Patterns of Dysfunction

Navigating Coupleship Dysfunction

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