Provides a model for categorizing marital and family skill training programs according to their theoretical orientation. Describes emotional, reasoning, and action approaches to intervention which allow counselors to examine the relationship between client characteristics and intervention approaches. (JAC)

Assessed the efficacy of a training program to train lay volunteers to lead a Premarital Relationship Enhancement program. Assessments of couples trained by the leader-trainees showed significant pre- to posttesting gains in their self-assessed skill levels and confidence. Premarital couples and experts rated the leader-trainees very highly.…

After participating in a social skills program, the trained group showed decreases in social anxiety and fear of negative evaluation. Shyness should be dealt with by family life educators because of its implications regarding development of intimacy and dealing with conflict in a marital relationship. (Author/JAC)