A wife says that after 24 years of marriage she still serves her husband breakfast but he doesn’t treat her well. Which response is appropriate?

• A. It seems that you feel that your husband could treat you well just as you treat him.
• B. You deserve to be treated with respect; what changes might you make to improve the relationship?
• C. Perhaps you should confront him about his behavior.
• D. It seems you are staying in an unhappy marriage.

Answer: (A)

A key skill here is reflective listening that validates what the wife is feeling and points to the idea of reciprocity in the relationship. The chosen response mirrors her perception—recognizing that she may be expecting respectful treatment in return for how she treats her husband. This approach validates her experience without blaming or giving fixed solutions, which helps her feel heard and opens space for deeper exploration.

By reflecting her view, it invites her to consider what she wants from the relationship and whether the pattern of giving without receiving the same respect feels fair to her. It sets a gentle, collaborative tone that can lead to a constructive conversation with her partner or personal reflection on boundaries, rather than jumping straight to action or confrontation.

The other options shift the dynamic in less helpful ways for initial support: telling her she deserves respect and asking what changes she might make moves toward prescriptive guidance; suggesting confrontation can escalate tension; labeling the situation as unhappy can feel judgmental and may shut down open discussion.