How can couples enhance their "friendship system" according to Gottman’s Method?

The enhancement of a couple's "friendship system" is central to building a strong relationship according to Gottman's Method. Fostering shared experiences and emotional support is vital because it allows partners to build intimacy and connection. Engaging in activities together, sharing thoughts and feelings, and providing mutual emotional support strengthens the bond between partners, making them feel valued and understood. This shared engagement is crucial for the friendship aspect of their relationship, which serves as a foundation for tackling conflicts and stresses later on.

In contrast, other options do not fundamentally support the strengthening of the friendship system. Avoiding sensitive topics may prevent immediate conflict but can hinder open communication and emotional intimacy. Competing with one another creates an adversarial dynamic instead of promoting partnership. Maintaining independence, while important to an extent, should not overshadow the need for togetherness and shared experiences that reinforce the bond between partners. Thus, fostering shared experiences and emotional support emerges as the most effective approach to enhancing the friendship system in a relationship.