A wealth of literature exists regarding intermarriage between White and ethnic minority couples. Noticeably lacking, however, is information considering within-group diversity amongst Black couples. This paper will focus on cultural dynamics that may operate with African American and African couples residing in the United States. Through an…

Marital satisfaction is the strongest predictor for happiness in many areas of life (Russel & Wells, 1994). A satisfying marriage is associated with better general adjustment and fewer health problems (Bray & Jouriles, 1995). Factors that contribute to marital satisfaction reported by researchers include religion and spirituality (Anthony,…

Developed a marital typology based on a nonrandom, national sample of 415 African American couples who took the Enriching Relationship Issues, Communication and Happiness (ENRICH) marital assessment inventory. Five marriage types were labeled as vitalized; harmonious; traditional; conflicted; and devitalized. Results were similar to findings in…

Article discusses many factors influencing modern marriages, and some of the current approaches to marriage counseling for Black couples. Some theoretical orientations, therapies, and crisis situations are mentioned. A significant need of the field is clarification of the legitimate limitations and roles of marriage counseling. (Author/SMR)

Discusses ways in which infidelity is viewed within the context of three ethnic minorities in the United States: African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Asian Americans. Provides an overview of infidelity according to religious traditions. Presents case studies to explore clinical treatment of infidelity from an ethnically sensitive…

The self perceptions and ideal women of black and white women were slightly self achieving. White women as in previous samples said men prefer a home oriented woman. Black women, however, felt men wanted a woman balanced between home and career aspirations, and black men agreed. White men also delineated a balanced ideal woman unlike what white…

In the past decade, assisting gay and lesbian clients with the coming out process, helping clients to manage stigmatized identities, and assisting counselors in removing their homophobic attitudes were the first priorities in dealing with homosexuality. This book outlines some of the issues that gays, lesbians, and bisexuals must deal with beyond…

Ways to establish or improve ministries to African American families and ways to make the church a training center for outreach, prevention, enrichment, and problem solving are explored. Part 1 addresses the spiritual challenge, and points out that the pastor's family is looked on as a model family, and that pastors must learn to be better spouses…