Newswise — Problems in intimate relationships are associated with a host of negative psychological and physical health consequences, such as depression, anxiety, and heart disease. Researchers have identified several types of interpersonal behaviors among couples that predict relationship distress or break-up/divorce; these are referred to as danger signs. Danger signs can take many forms, from aggressive behavior expressed on a first date to a long-term pattern of repeated escalation or withdrawal during discussions and arguments. Early and accurate awareness of danger signs may help individuals make healthy decisions about how to proceed within a new or long-term relationship.

The Family Institute at Northwestern University’s Madigan Family Postdoctoral Clinical Research Fellow, Kelley Quirk, PhD, is available to comment on danger signs in romantic relationships.

“Maintaining a high degree of awareness of the communication and interpersonal behaviors enacted within your romantic relationship is the first step toward identifying and addressing danger signs,” says Dr. Quirk. “Danger signs can be displayed when couples communicate about problems or conflicts, the way partners treat each other or physical violence.” Dr. Quirk received her PhD from the University of Louisville. She specializes in couples and individuals, working with them to enrich or heal their relationships. Her research spans two different areas of relationships, the effectiveness of psychotherapy and the relationship between client and therapist, as well as romantic relationships and the dynamics at work between partners.

To speak to Dr. Quirk about danger signs in romantic relationships, or to learn more about The Family Institute, please contact Cyndi Schu, Director of Public Relations, at cschu@family-institute or 312-609-5300, ext. 483.

ABOUT THE FAMILY INSTITUTE AT NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY – For over 45 years, The Family Institute at Northwestern University (www.family-institute.org) has been committed to strengthening and healing families and individuals from all walks of life through clinical service, education and research. An affiliate of Northwestern University, The Family Institute is a unique, innovative not-for-profit organization, governed by its own independent Board of Directors and responsible for its own funding. The Institute offers a wide range of high quality mental health counseling through our staff practice and our sliding-fee scale Bette D. Harris Family and Child Clinic, where we are committed to serving at-risk, under-resourced communities. The Family Institute also operates two nationally-renowned graduate programs in marriage and family therapy and counseling psychology in affiliation with Northwestern University, and conducts cutting-edge research projects that lead to a better understanding and treatment of mental health issues.

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