A three-stage model of marital enrichment designed to maximize valid effects and integrate participants' attitudinal and behavioral changes is presented. Goals of the three stages are differentiated; their advantages and limitations are discussed. Suggestions for well-designed research on the sequential model are presented. (Author)

Studied the relationship between spouses' individual expectancies for internal versus external control of reinforcements (locus of control), and their level of marital dissatisfaction. Results indicated that only a marital pattern in which the wife was more external and the husband more internal was associated with marital dissatisfaction. (Author)

Contrary to prior assumptions, matched groups differed from each other nearly as much as they did from the unmatched group. This has implications for the ability to generalize from interspousal data even when comparison groups are matched on several traditional variables. (Author)

In tests of three models of self-disclosure and satisfaction in marriage, only the linear model achieved substantial support. Communication about relatively personal and intimate matters constitutes an important step in the process of need and goal fulfillment in marriage. (Author)

Couples experiencing marital discord also experienced less congruity in their perceptions. Even when subjects were matched randomly into husband-wife pairs, the marital discord subjects were less homogeneous in their perceptions. The groups also differed in their defensive styles, with a sensitizing style more associated with marital discord.…

Examines the pathogenic perspective on divorce, pointing out its methodological and conceptual shortcomings. A conceptual model of the divorce experience based upon crisis theory is presented. Provides a framework for understanding short- and long-term reactions to divorce. (Author)

Examines the influence of factors associated with the remarriage market on two outcome areas: (1) the probability of remarriage and the interval between marital events; and (2) the selectivity of spouse characteristics. Findings are consistent with a remarriage market perspective. (Author)

Reports on the relationship of the initial attracting quality to the present most annoying quality between spouses. Questionnaires and interviews assessed qualities which were then categorized based on Norman's five personality factor system. Findings suggest that initial and present qualities are related. (Author/RC)

Data from divorced and remarried respondents suggest the existence of moderate normative integration of the former spouse relationship. Men and women were significantly different in their degree of acceptance of former spouse interaction. Expectations for former husbands and former wives in comparable situations showed no differential standards by…

A descriptive study of perceptions of husband support and family role change for returning women students was conducted. Husband support was considered important. However, the degree and impact of particular areas of husband support varied. Women reported little change in traditional division of labor and noted increased stress. (Author)

The aim of this article is to present relevant data on the psychometric characteristics of scales designed to measure one or more aspects of human sexual activity and marital interactions. (Author)

Sexual, social, and behavioral considerations which may contribute as reproductive barriers are discussed. Much effort has gone into study and experience in aiding the infertile couple. Yet there is no demonstrated empirical agreement on what constitutes psychogenic factors involved or their etiology. (Author)

This investigation studied the relationship between personality and influence means by additional measures of personality in the marriage relationship. One such measure is based on the Eriksonian development approach. (Author)

Presents a discussion of the linguistic mechansim of nominalization. In identifying and challenging nominalizations, the counselor can help a couple clarify the present state of their relationship, where they are hurting, the desired state of their relationship, and the feeling and behavioral changes they want in their relationship. (Author)

In counseling groups, uncoupling partners learn to say their good-byes and accept the death of the marriage. They complete their unfinished business with each other. An organizational strategy is necessary. Skill in helping partners uncouple is a vital function of a marriage counselor, who must be proficient in group counseling. (Author)