Presents an experiential technique for teaching the family life cycle, where participants are asked to create simulated families and are assigned a series of structured exercises. Includes directions for each exercise, questions designed to develop observation skills, and discussion of specific workshop issues. (Author/LLL)

Evaluated the effectiveness of a structured educational program to train premarital couples in communication and mutual problem-solving skills. Couples (N=26) participated in a problem-solving training program, while similar couples (N=28) participated in a relationship discussion group. The problem-solving group showed a greater increase in…

Describes a behavioral problem-solving package designed to train negotiation and emotional expression skills. Training consisted of modeling, behavioral rehearsal, and feedback regarding the rehearsal. Training was associated with increases in target, nontarget, and subjective behaviors, thereby demonstrating generalized treatment effects. (Author)