[[Contempt]] is the result of repetitive criticism and the third level of the Cascade Model and is driven by a lack of [[admiration]] and mutual respect.<ref name=":12" /><ref name=":3" /><ref name=":5" /> It is the third level of the Cascade Model. Contempt is expressed verbally through mocking, sarcasm, and indignation with an attempt to claim moral-superiority over the other partner.<ref name=":3" /> Contempt can also be indicated nonverbally by [[eye-rolling]], scoffing''.''<ref name=":5" /> Underlying this behavior is Gottman and Levenson's research which found contempt to be the strongest predictor of relational dissolution, with contempt being the strongest overall predictor for women.<ref name=":2" /><ref name=":12" />
