Complete Bibliography & Further Reading
The science behind evidence-based relationship wisdom
Navigate Relationship Change is built on decades of rigorous research in relationship science, attachment theory, and couples therapy. This page provides a comprehensive bibliography of the academic works, books, and research papers that inform the product's 7 life situations and 28 wisdom modules. Each source is available through Amazon with direct purchase links.
The foundational research upon which Navigate Relationship Change is built:
1999 • Three Rivers Press
The definitive guide to relationship success from the researcher who can predict divorce with over 90% accuracy. Based on decades of research through the "Love Lab" at the University of Washington, this book presents seven evidence-based principles that distinguish happy couples from those headed for trouble.
2008 • Little, Brown and Company
The creator of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) reveals the seven transformative conversations that can heal and strengthen love. Johnson's approach is based on attachment science and has been validated through extensive clinical research.
Understanding the science of how we bond and connect:
2010 • TarcherPerigee
Revolutionary insights into how attachment styles—anxious, avoidant, or secure—shape our romantic lives. Practical guidance for understanding your patterns and finding compatible partners.
2012 • Gotham Books
Based on twelve years of pioneering research, Brown explores how vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, and creativity. Essential for Situation 1 (Starting New Relationships) modules.
2000 • Vintage
Three psychiatrists explain the science behind why we love, how we form connections, and why relationships are essential for our wellbeing. Beautifully written blend of science and poetry.
Research on navigating disagreements and rebuilding after ruptures:
1995 • Simon & Schuster
Gottman reveals the four deadly patterns that predict relationship failure (the "Four Horsemen") and provides concrete strategies for avoiding them. Essential reading for Situation 3 (Navigating Conflict).
2001 • Harmony
Gottman introduces the concept of "bids for connection"—the fundamental units of emotional communication. Learn to recognize and respond to bids to dramatically improve relationship quality.
2012 • William Morrow (3rd Edition)
The definitive guide for couples working through infidelity. Offers a balanced approach for both the hurt partner and the unfaithful partner. Essential for Situation 4 (Rebuilding Trust).
Research on building and maintaining deep connection:
2006 • Harper
Perel explores the tension between domesticity and desire, security and passion. A provocative look at how to maintain eroticism in committed relationships.
2017 • Harper
A nuanced exploration of why people cheat and how couples can heal. Perel challenges conventional wisdom while offering hope for recovery.
2013 • Little, Brown and Company
Johnson explains the science of love—how we're wired for connection, why love matters for health, and how to create the lasting bonds we crave.
Essential reading for Situation 6 (Dealing with Toxic Relationships):
1992 • Zondervan
The classic guide to understanding what boundaries are, why they matter, and how to set them in all relationships. Over 4 million copies sold.
2002 • Berkley Books
A counselor who has worked with over 2,000 abusive men reveals patterns of manipulation and abuse. Essential for recognizing and safely navigating toxic dynamics.
Peer-reviewed research underlying Navigate Relationship Change:
Gottman, J. M., & Levenson, R. W. (1992). Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 63(2), 221-233.
The foundational paper establishing that specific interaction patterns can predict divorce with high accuracy—the research behind the "Four Horsemen" concept.
Gottman, J. M. (1993). Journal of Family Psychology, 7(1), 57-75.
Presents the mathematical model explaining why some relationships succeed while others fail, including the 5:1 ratio of positive to negative interactions.
Hazan, C., & Shaver, P. (1987). Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 52(3), 511-524.
Landmark paper extending attachment theory to adult romantic relationships—the foundation for understanding attachment styles in love.
Johnson, S. M., Hunsley, J., Greenberg, L., & Schindler, D. (1999). Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 25(1), 3-25.
Meta-analysis demonstrating the effectiveness of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples—showing 70-75% of couples move from distress to recovery.
Rusbult, C. E., & Buunk, B. P. (1993). Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 10(2), 175-204.
Research on commitment dynamics—what makes people stay in relationships and what causes them to leave.
Google Scholar is a free academic search engine that indexes peer-reviewed papers, theses, books, and conference proceedings from universities and research institutions worldwide.
Unlike regular Google, Scholar focuses exclusively on academic and scholarly sources—the original research that books like those above are based on.
Use Google Scholar when you want to:
Note: Some papers require institutional access or purchase, but many are freely available as PDFs.
Transform evidence-based relationship research into daily inspiration with Navigate Relationship Change's 28 modules and 2,800+ curated quotes.