This article provides an overview of partner violence research as it pertains to incidence, partner abuse typologies, etiology/explanation, and treatment. Developmental and integrated models for explaining and treating partner abuse are given particular consideration. (Contains 129 references.) (GCP)

This paper extends models of relationship types through the use of balance theory as developed by Heider and expanded by Cartwright and Harary. This model is then used to assess the stability and satisfaction of interpersonal relationships, describing the dyad (or larger groups) as a system or functioning entity. (Author)

This paper provides a rationale for group pre-marriage counseling based on the social nature of factors influencing the marriage model. The author suggests that while group pre-marriage counseling invites disillusionment, it offers the antidote--the realization that disillusionment occurred not necessarily because of a bad choice, but because of…

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)

Describes structured marital separation, an intervention method designed to assist distressed marital couples during their critical period of decision making either to divorce or maintain the marriage. Presents a brief review of separation models and addresses separation counseling including: assessment, contracting, initial adjustment to…

Presents model of marital interactions based on nature of fit between each spouse's belief systems, particularly those related to fears inherent in intimacy. Proposes that such interactions can be belief-confirming, lead to alienation, conflict, or unhappiness; or belief-disconfirming, leading to intimacy, successful conflict resolution, and…

The increasing popularity of contracting and negotiation training with marital couples suggests a need for systematic analysis of the models available for such training. Working within a behavioral framework two major categories of contracting are developed, and their logical form is considered. (Author)

The effects of individual values upon the development of conflicts and the resolution of marital problems through counseling are explored, using the Interpersonal Growth Scale (IGS). This instrument is described as it evaluates the processes of growing apart and growing together, and notes operating values, determining their functions and…

Lack of consideration of the sexually functional population has led to misconceptions about causes of sexual dysfunction functioning. Automatic functioning can mask effects of pathogenic influences on sexuality, making these effects appear random, confounding etiological issues and creating the belief that causes of sexual dysfunction and disorder…

A set of nine propositions about value systems were introduced as a basis for the four models of marriage counseling discussed: Counseling, General Form; Marriage Counseling, Individual (Family in Vitro); Marriage Counseling, Conjoint (Family in Vivo); Pathological or Grossly Deviant Systems in Counseling. The interactions of the various value…

Examined the process of marital disaffection to determine whether there is a pattern of sequential stages. Developed three-phase model of disaffection from the results of in-depth interviews with 49 highly disaffected spouses. Results suggest that marital therapy must involve different goals and interventions during each phase of disaffection to…

Discusses the pursuer-distancer relationship style so as to help counselors recognize this type of interaction and offers several treatment techniques to alleviate it. Demonstrates the relationship between the concepts of parentification and childlike behavior and the pursuer and the distancer. Uses an integrative model of marital therapy as a…

The authors present a model which follows the development of a male-female relationship through dating, marriage and divorce. They discuss the factors that cause friction between a husband and wife and offer procedures for coping with such friction. (SE)

At Western Illinois University a three segment workshop has been initiated to help participants become aware of intimacy skills and facilitate their actual practice. The model has three separate sections; each is devoted to a distinct but related series of concepts and activities. (Author)