>[!abstract] >The Gottman ratio, also called the "magic ratio", refers to John Gottman's finding that stable, happy couples maintain roughly five positive interactions for every negative one during conflict or daily life. Positive interactions can include expressions of affection, humor, empathy, or support, while negative interactions involve criticism, defensiveness, or contempt. This 5:1 balance highlights that it is not the absence of conflict but the predominance of constructive, affirming exchanges that sustains relationship satisfaction. The ratio serves as both a diagnostic marker in Gottman's research and a practical guideline for fostering resilient partnerships. >[!related] >- **North** (upstream): [[Relationship science]] >- **West** (similar): [[Positivity ratio]] (Barbara Fredrickson's “broaden-and-build” theory of emotions, though more general than couples research) >- **East** (different): [[Negative sentiment override]] (where negative interactions dominate and color neutral/positive exchanges) >- **South** (downstream): The "[[Four Horsemen]]" predictors of divorce