Conscious uncoupling - meaning and definition
Alsoamicable separationamicable breakupconsciously uncouplingamicable divorcepeaceful breakup
Definition
Ending a relationship deliberately and respectfully, with both partners aiming to minimise blame and harm.
At a glance
- Ending a relationship deliberately and respectfully.
- Both partners aim to minimise blame and harm.
- It involves reflecting on one's own part and communicating with care.
- It does not make a breakup painless.
- It is not appropriate or safe in every situation, such as where there has been abuse.
In detail
The phrase was coined by a therapist and became widely known through celebrity separations. It describes an approach to breaking up in which partners reflect on their own part, communicate with care and, where relevant, cooperate on co-parenting.
Conscious uncoupling does not mean a breakup is painless. It is an intention to handle the ending with dignity, and it is not appropriate or safe in every situation, such as where there has been abuse.
In a sentence
- We're trying conscious uncoupling for the kids' sake, so we still do Sunday lunch together.
- Conscious uncoupling sounds lovely, but our breakup was still really hard.
Where the word comes from
Coined by US therapist Katherine Woodward Thomas. It became widely known in 2014 when a celebrity couple used the phrase to announce their separation.
Common questions
What does conscious uncoupling actually involve?
It usually means reflecting on your own part in the relationship, communicating with care, avoiding blame and, if there are children, cooperating on co-parenting.
Is conscious uncoupling always possible?
No. It depends on both people being willing and safe. Where there has been abuse or control, safety comes first, and support services can help.