Field combat stress clinics and research have identified the signature event that precedes thoughts of suicide and homicide in combat soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan: a distressing personal relationship event with a stateside partner. In response to this alarming information, we have identified critical factors and precipitating incidents as well…

Describes a values related activity which allows an individual to explore his/her own values, attitudes and emotions concerning attributes of a husband or a wife. (Author/EJT)

Examined the effects of a structured choice-awareness, marriage enrichment program on participants' marital satisfaction and self-concept. Meaningful trends in the predicted direction of increased marital satisfaction and increased self-concept were noted for the experimental group. (Author)

A pre-marital assessment method is described which utilizes interviews with the young couple, with both sets of parents and group interviewing with all six key persons involved in the plans for marriage. The use of selected tests and particular methods of examining the couple's relationship are discussed. (Author)

This paper outlines a program designed for preparing groups of engaged couples for marriage in circumstances where program time is limited to two afternoon sessions. Six topic areas are covered: Adjustments and Priorities; Communication Skills; Parenthood; Money Management; Religious Dimensions in Marriage; and Sexuality. The method used is one of…

Designed to facilitate increased communication competencies of partners in two-person, relatively long-term relationships, the Communicating as a Couple workshop was developed and tested to provide knowledge of specific and useful competencies, along with a rationale, a supportive environment, feedback, and motivation. The four 90-minute exercise…

Presents a structured enrichment workshop designed to facilitate marital intimacy, featuring three modules: (1) self-hood and differentiation; (2) communication of emotions; and (3) negotiation. Theoretical bases of each module are outlined, with special attention given to the role of sharing of hurt feelings as a primary dimension of intimacy.…

The program described is a Marriage Diagnostic Laboratory--a five-week series of weekly two-hour sessions for married couples concerned about their relationships, but not yet in counseling. Only preventive experiences were provided. The experiment is described in detail, and its effectiveness assessed. (Author)

This article describes one exploratory treatment approach designed to help hostile marital partners reach a point at which each is motivated to solve problems rather than seek revenge. (Author)

Describes the use of a penny game as a counseling technique to interrupt an unwanted cycle of behavior between spouses. The game can be explained in terms of both paradox and power and is useful with several marriage counseling techniques which teach more appropriate verbal behavior. (JAC)

Describes a project completed by 100 couples enrolled in marriage courses regarding mate selection. These couples exchanged information with their partners in the areas of economics, religion, children, sex and a miscellaneous category. (Author/HMV)

Presents a contract and rationale for use with couples who recognize that their marriage is on the edge of divorce. The couple can choose to live separately under controlled and structured conditions. The counselor plays an active part as mediator and facilitator. (Author)

The author's system of premarital counseling and examination consists of four visits before marriage and one after. These visits are for introducing the contractual elements of marriage; taking medical histories and physical examinations; introducing a program for beginning marriage; and resolving problems in the early weeks of marriage. (BP)

This article describes the Minnesota Couples Communication Program which offers a structured educational experience directed toward equipping couples with skills for (1) heightening awareness of self and self's contributions to interaction, (2) effectively expressing self-awareness, (3) accurately understanding partner's communications, and (4)…

The authors discuss social taboos that hinder the free discussion of marriage problems. They then describe the Association of Couples for Marriage Enrichment (ACME) which they have started. This organization brings together married couples and through the use of various group procedures promotes the establishment of healthy marriage relationships.…