Dyadic Conceptualization
How to Use This Worksheet
This worksheet helps you look at a situation between you and a loved one from both perspectives. Often, misunderstandings happen because each person sees the same event differently. By writing down what happened, how you each understood it, how you felt, and what you did, you can begin to notice patterns and better understand one another.
Step 1: Choose a Situation
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Pick a recent event that felt upsetting, frustrating, or confusing in your relationship.
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Try to keep it specific (e.g., “They came home late and didn’t call” rather than “They don’t respect me”).
Step 2: Fill in Your Side (Me)
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What happened? Describe the facts of the situation.
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How I made sense of it: Write the meaning or interpretation you gave it. (“He doesn’t care about my time”).
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How I felt: Write down your emotions. (hurt, anxious, angry).
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What I did: Note how you responded. (I got quiet and avoided talking to him).
Step 3: Fill in Your Loved One’s Side
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Imagine what it might have been like for them, or if they’re doing the worksheet too, they can write their own side.
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Answer the same questions: what happened, how they may have made sense of it, how they felt, and what they did.
Step 4: Compare Both Perspectives
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Look at the two sides together.
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Ask yourself:
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“Where do we see the same event differently?”
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“What feelings were driving our actions?”
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“How did our reactions affect each other?”
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Step 5: Reflect
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Think about how you might respond differently next time, now that you see both perspectives.
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Consider: “How can I show more understanding for their point of view while also expressing my own needs?”