NPR Comic Draws on Priya Parker's New Book to Rethink Conflict in Relationships

Parker, a conflict-resolution facilitator for 20 years, says in the story that many people dread conflict, but it is necessary for close, authentic relationships. "We assume if the heat is rising, this must be bad. But the reframe is that there's something relevant here. I should pay attention," she says. She adds that when someone feels a moment of misalignment with another person, they should treat it as a signal that there is something to talk about.

The comic, drawn by New Yorker cartoonist Navied Mahdavian, addresses common questions about fights with partners, family members and friends. It was edited by Malaka Gharib, with visual editing by CJ Riculan. NPR also invited readers to email LifeKit@npr.org and to listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.