What's your love language - and does it actually mean anything?

So what can couples do if they want to understand each other, and themselves, better?

Listen to your partner: "Don't just wait until you can speak, but try to hear what they are saying and acknowledge their feelings," Dr Emmerson said.

Share how you feel using "I" statements, so you avoid blame: "If you reframe your words to lead with your own feelings, it helps you to express what's going on without leaving the other person feeling criticised," Sturmer explained.

Remember that disagreements are normal: "Healthy relationships often feature debate and disagreement," Sturmer said. "The challenge is not about avoiding rupture, it's about finding ways to repair it that can leave the relationship feeling stronger."