it appears a helpful approach of counseling and prevention programs for new parents

would be to capitalize on the strengths of the couples' preferred approach to conflict

while minimizing its weaknesses. Although couples may benefit from "borrowing"

strategies from other conflict types, the approach suggested here, based on Gottman's

theory and research along with this study's findings, would be in contrast to advocating

similar approaches to conflict for all couples.

 The validating couple conflict type score in the present investigation was associated

with lower levels of task differentiation, as well as lower role dissatisfaction and marital

disaffection, and higher levels of individual well-being. These findings suggest

prevention programs should simply help validating couples stay on track, continuing to

do what is benefiting their marriages. Validating couples' strong marital friendship may

be particularly associated with their adjustment, and its nurturing should be promoted.

 Although the volatile couple conflict type was not significantly correlated with the

marital disaffection variable, it was a significant predictor of lower marital disaffection,

providing a unique contribution to explaining the variance in this factor. Gottman noted

the success of the three regulated types depended on their maintenance of a 5-to-1 ratio of

positive-to-negative interactions. It is possible the challenges of the transition to

parenthood and the demands of caring for a new baby may disrupt the balance in volatile

couples' interactions; conflicts may increase while less time and energy may be available

for couples to incorporate successful repair attempts. Therapists and family educators

may be of most help by reminding volatile couples of the importance of their positive

interactions and repair attempts, and assisting them in integrating these into their

changing family circumstances.