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Children Quote by Harville Hendrix

“All this may seem like a terrible tangle. But since partnership is designed to resurface feelings from childhood, it means that most of the upset that gets triggered in us during our relationship is from our past. Yes! About 90 percent of the frustrations your partner has with you are really about…” quote by Harville Hendrix
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““All this may seem like a terrible tangle. But since partnership is designed to resurface feelings from childhood, it means that most of the upset that gets triggered in us during our relationship is from our past. Yes! About 90 percent of the frustrations your partner has with you are really about their issues from childhood. That means only 10 percent or so is about each of you right now. Doesn’t that make you feel better?””

Harville Hendrix

About This Quote

Source Book: Getting the Love You Want by Harville Hendrix, 1988

Partnership often triggers childhood wounds, so many conflicts stem from past issues rather than present behavior.

In simple terms: Relationship problems often come from childhood baggage.

Key Takeaway

Recognize past wounds to improve current relationships.

Themes

relationships psychology healing

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

advice psychological

When to use this quote

  • couples therapy
  • family counseling
  • personal growth
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

attachment theory emotional resurfacing

Questions to Reflect On

  • How much of your conflict is rooted in childhood?
  • What steps can you take to address past wounds?
A Different Perspective

Only a small fraction of conflict is about current actions; deeper work may be needed.

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