ABSTRACT
In this chapter, a theoretical formulation is proposed that is designed to link the outcome cascade (cascade toward dissolution), the process cascade (the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse), the distance and isolation cascade, and concepts of physiological arousal and reactivity. The basis of this formulation is the definition of conjugate spaces, P-space that assesses behavioral flow of cumulated negativity minus positivity, and Q-space that assesses the perception of well-being or distress (operationalized as the rating dial in the video recall procedure). The additional goal of this formulation is to surmise how a person might go from thinking negatively about an interaction to more globally and stable negative attributions about the partner and the relationship. Flooding is suggested as the variable that provides the intervening link. Data are presented that suggest that these linkages exist. New data are presented from 156 couples using a self-report of affect procedure developed by Rushe during interviews with couples about their most negatively and positively rated moments. These data support the idea of linkages between self-report of affect, negative attributions about the spouse, and flooding. The structure of Q-space is examined for positive and negative moments. The results of an Oral History Interview are presented to show that global perceptions of the spouse and the history of the relationship are highly predictive of divorce in then DUO86 study, correlated with interaction during marital conflict and indexes of physiological reactivity. Data also are reviewed about the negative consequences of negative affect and the buffering effects of positive affect (particularly interest, humor, and validation) on adrenaline secretion during marital conflict. Results are integrated into a model that posits a core triad of balance with bidirecional relationships between P-space, Q-space, and physiological responses.
