Our natural fight-or-flight response is hardwired into our brains and that ancient instinct can turn even minor disagreements into raging fights through a reflexive series of escalating charges and counter-charges. In "The Pause That Empowers, " Dr. Josiah Dilley (former professor of counseling psychology at University of Wisconsin-Madison) illustrates both the patterns of interpersonal conflict and strategies that can be used to defuse and de-escalate combative situations.

Using anecdotes, skill builders, dialogues, and concrete communication strategies described in clear, plain English, Dr. Dilley guides his readers through the roots of conflict and teaches them how to use language and listening to resolve even serious differences without tearing apart the underlying relationship.