Differences of opinion are normal and can be enriching for a relationship. Some conflict in relationships is inevitable, but there are ways to handle conflict so that it is not destructive to you individually or as a couple.
People often get emotional and angry when they see their partner has different values, beliefs or expectations from them. We all need to understand and accept that between any two people there will be differences in ideas and expectations and, at times, conflict and strong expression of feelings.

Relationships usually become stronger if partners talk about these differences. Differences will be part of relationships, but they may be resolved through respectful communication.

All couples experience problems in one form or another - it's part of sharing your life with another person. The difference between relationships that flourish and those that don't is how well couples deal with the challenges and problems they face in their life together.

What does conflict in a relationship indicate?

Frequent conflict, most commonly expressed as anger, can indicate that all is not well for a couple, that some change is needed to keep their relationship healthy.
The key questions are

• "how can we manage not to hurt each other or our relationship when we have a row?" and
• "how can we learn from the conflict?"

Avoiding conflict could mean avoiding important issues which would be better faced and sorted out.

Conflict is a symptom - treating the symptom by patching things up without finding out its cause is unwise in the long-term