Final answer:
Gottman and Silver suggest several steps for healthy relationships and conflict resolution, including softening conversation startups, repairing communication breakdowns, self-soothing and mutual comfort, compromising, and being tolerant of each other's faults.
Step-by-step explanation:
The steps recommended by Gottman and Silver to maintain a healthy relationship and effective conflict resolution involve: softening your startup, which means beginning conversations about difficult topics in a gentle and positive way; making and receiving repair attempts, which are actions or statements that help de-escalate tension; soothing yourself and each other to stay emotionally balanced; compromise to reach a mutually satisfactory resolution; and tolerance of each other's faults, meaning accepting imperfections and focusing on the positive aspects of your partner. These guidelines are essential for creating a positive communication environment, repairing wounded feelings, and fostering greater understanding and empathy within the relationship.