Schismogenesis means "the beginning of conflict." For those who've been bedeviled in an important but vexing intimate relationship and couldn't put your finger on how or why, this book is for you. Based on the premise that clearly identifying a problem is the first step in finding solutions, these one page comic "mini dramas" can help couples identify the sometimes confusing world of getting along. You'll learn: * How blaming, avoiding, and defensiveness multiplies couple conflict. * Our partner's actions are often simply reactions to the other partner's action. * That ending escalating conflict requires only one person's efforts, yours. * There is a time to laugh, even in the midst of difficult family squabbles.