FG Trade / Getty Images
Love maps aren’t actual maps.
Rather, they’re a concept created by clinical relationship psychologistsDrs.
John and Julie Gottman, who have done significant research around relationships and what makes them work.
FG Trade / Getty Images
They’re one of nine elements of Gottman’s concept “The Sound relationship House.”
How Are Love Maps Formed?
Love maps function throughcommunication, curiosity, vulnerability, andtrustin your partner(s).
Love maps are formed through sharing information, feelings, and thoughts with our partner(s).
In turn, they enable your relationship to grow closer and deeper.
It’s human nature to share our life experiences, our hopes, our dreams, and our fears.
These are all components of love maps.
Why Do Love Maps Matter?
Love maps are important because they can make your relationships stronger and better.
They can deepen emotional connection andintimacy.
Additionally, they can help us understand each other and feel more seen and understood.
As part of the overall Gottman Couples Therapy, love maps lead to improved relationships.
Because relationships are always growing and changing, just like people are, they aren’t a finite concept.
Love Map Questions
Love maps center around asking your partner(s) questions.
These are some examples from the cards.
It’s also an appropriate time to create one if you haven’t already.
But you don’t need to wait until a relationship is in peril for this activity.
What Do “Healthy” Love Maps Look Like?
A healthy love map, in the simplest sense, is an understanding of your partner(s).
She suggests the following tips for building better love maps.
And your relationship doesn’t need to be in trouble for you to take this step, either.
Lisitsa E.The sound relationship house: build love maps.
2018;13(2):135-141.
