When couples are filled with anger and hatred for one another I can't help wondering why they remain together.

To spend your life locked in battle with your partner is such a waste.

Conversely, when I hear or read about couples who have never had a cross word in all their years together, I am not totally convinced that this is a virtue.

Rupert and Zoe found themselves in a bit of a rut with their tendency to withdraw from one another after a row.

The tension of living in a constantly strained atmosphere was beginning to take its toll on their physical and mental well-being.

Anger does not have to be destructive. Rather, ask yourself if it is appropriate for the situation?

If you seem to be enraged more than is justified, then maybe you are tapping into some previously unexpressed anger.

Instead of giving your partner the punishing silent treatment why not try and get in touch with what the real problem is.

Be honest about why and who you are really angry with.

Whatever the dispute, keep the communication going.