ABSTRACT
Circular patterns are an integral part of any relationship (Watzlawick, Beavin, & Jackson, 1967). Although these patterns can be positive or negative in nature, researchers agree that negative interaction cycles have detrimental effects on relationships (Carrere, Buehlman, Gottman, Coan, & Ruckstuhl, 2000; Noller & Feeney, 1998). Both distressed and nondistressed couples are likely to engage in negative interactions; however, research indicates that distressed couples typically assign more negative intent to their partner's behavior, react more negatively to that behavior, and respond less positively to negative and positive stimuli than their nondistressed counterparts (Carrere et aI., 2000). As clinicians, it is important to understand these cycles and determine what effect they are having on clients' relationships.
