Harville Hendrix’s Getting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples is a relationship self-help book that explores the concept of “imago therapy.” This therapeutic approach suggests that individuals are drawn to partners who unconsciously resemble primary caregivers, both in positive and negative traits. The book provides practical exercises, including structured dialogues and behavioral changes, designed to foster understanding, empathy, and connection within intimate relationships. It emphasizes identifying unconscious patterns from childhood that influence current relationship dynamics.
Published in 1988, the text has become a cornerstone of relationship counseling, offering readers tools for improving communication, resolving conflict, and fostering deeper intimacy. Its focus on recognizing and healing past wounds to create healthier present relationships has resonated with a wide audience. The work’s enduring popularity suggests a significant contribution to the field of relationship psychology, providing a framework for couples seeking stronger, more fulfilling partnerships.