A tango of loving hate: Couple dynamics in high-conflict divorce

This study explores the dynamics of couples embroiled in high-conflict divorce through the theoretical prism of British object relations theories. The study employed a mixed method design, using quantitative (n = 137 couples) and qualitative (n = 16) methods. The data were drawn from an archival database at the Judith Wallerstein Center for the Family in Transition (JWCFIT).;The findings support the hypothesis that couples in high conflict divorce demonstrate primitive object relations which are evident in a higher level of splitting and projection. The study also reveals the existence of retaliation and reparation processes in high conflict divorce. These dynamics create a circle of terror, retaliation, and failed reparation attempts that lead to even more terror, splitting and projection, ultimately resulting in an inability to reach resolution of the divorce conflict.