Recent investigations of marital interaction have concentrated on the process of communication while discussing issues of conflict within the relationship. Few studies have been designed to assess emotional communication among married couples. To determine emotional interaction by examining the overall distribution and sequencing of emotional behaviors, 42 couples were observed one month after the birth of their first child. Couples with very high adjustment emitted a greater proportion of approve/caring behaviors and a lesser proportion of aversive behaviors when compared to couples with moderate adjustment. Sequential analysis confirmed that empathic behavior had an excitatory effect on the subsequent probability of partner complaints; negatory behavior had an inhibitory effect. The findings indicate patterns of behavior that suggest functional reinforcement and punishment. (Author/JAC)