ABSTRACT
The intervention described in this chapter is focused on the identification and modification of information processing errors that interfere with effective couple interaction. Only recently have cognitive intervention methods been specifically applied to couple interaction (Baucom & Epstein, 1990; Beck, 1988; Ellis, 1977; Epstein, 1982; Epstein & Baucom, 1989; Granvoid, 1988). Cognitive distortions play an active role in the verbal, behavioral, and emotional interchanges between marital partners. In analyzing couple interaction, the behavior of one spouse is mediated by the other in terms of meaning, motivation, and etiology. What a behavior means, why a spouse behaves as s/he does, and the history of a behavior combine to form a composite appraisal of spouse A's behavior by spouse B. The interaction proceeds as spouse B completes the appraisal and responds both covertly and overtly. This appraisal may be fraught with cognitive distortions and faulty expectations. Aiding the individual or couple in the identification of cognitive errors and guiding the modification of such errors can produce constructive change in the couple's verbal and behavioral interaction and feelings toward one another.
