ABSTRACT
The purpose of the Shared Journaling technique is to provide couples with a structured and intentional means of successfully practicing new communication and conflict resolution skills at home. With Shared Journaling technique, the couple uses a journal to communicate and resolve conflict throughout the week instead of talking directly to one another. In this way, the process of communication is slowed down and becomes more intentional, thereby increasing the likelihood that the couple will use new skills in their communication. The couple can bring the journal into therapy so that the therapist has direct access to the communications, allowing for more direct feedback on both excellent attempts and problem areas. The partner reading the entry can see where the partner made efforts to use the skills and to be thoughtful about his/her communication. The couple can continue to use the technique until the skills become more readily accessible to them for use in verbal communications.
