Time-out and writing in distressed couples: an experimental trial into the effects of a short treatment

The results of a controlled experimental trial into an ultra-short protocolled treatment for quarrelling couples are reported. Fifty-five couples were randomly allocated to two treatment conditions and one waiting list/control condition. The treatment conditions focused on self-control by time-out including writing. In the interactional treatment the partners wrote letters to each other when they felt angry. In the individual treatment the partners were instructed to evaluate their own role in the conflict without sharing the writing with their partner. In accordance with expectactations, the quality of the relationship of the treated couples improved significantly compared to the waiting list control group. No differences were found between the two experimental conditions.