Which list correctly identifies the Four Horsemen of Gottman Theory?

Which list correctly identifies the Four Horsemen of Gottman Theory?

• A. Contempt, Defensiveness, Stonewalling, Criticism
• B. Criticism, Contempt, Defensiveness, Stonewalling
• C. Criticism, Contempt, Defensiveness, Breaks
• D. Criticism, Contempt, Defensiveness, Silence

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is the four destructive communication patterns Gottman identifies as the strongest predictors of relationship trouble. These patterns are Criticism, Contempt, Defensiveness, and Stonewalling. The best choice lists exactly these four terms in the standard Gottman terminology, which is why it matches the canonical set researchers and clinicians use. Contempt, for example, goes beyond a single complaint and conveys disrespect and disdain, which erodes trust. Defensiveness is about warding off blame rather than taking responsibility, which blocks repair. Stonewalling is withdrawal when one partner feels overwhelmed, cutting off the conversation. Together, these four patterns predict relationship strain. Other options replace Stonewalling with terms like Silence or Breaks, which aren’t the four horsemen Gottman describes, so they don’t fit the established framework. One option also just repeats the same four in a different order; while the set is the same, the canonical listing most people recognize is Criticism, Contempt, Defensiveness, Stonewalling.

The main idea here is the four destructive communication patterns Gottman identifies as the strongest predictors of relationship trouble. These patterns are Criticism, Contempt, Defensiveness, and Stonewalling. The best choice lists exactly these four terms in the standard Gottman terminology, which is why it matches the canonical set researchers and clinicians use.

Contempt, for example, goes beyond a single complaint and conveys disrespect and disdain, which erodes trust. Defensiveness is about warding off blame rather than taking responsibility, which blocks repair. Stonewalling is withdrawal when one partner feels overwhelmed, cutting off the conversation. Together, these four patterns predict relationship strain.

Other options replace Stonewalling with terms like Silence or Breaks, which aren’t the four horsemen Gottman describes, so they don’t fit the established framework. One option also just repeats the same four in a different order; while the set is the same, the canonical listing most people recognize is Criticism, Contempt, Defensiveness, Stonewalling.