This paper examines a term frequently used in marriage and family therapy and enrichment programs. It explores the nature and multi-dimensional aspects of intimacy; delineates its specific conceptual characteristics; describes some apparent research needs; and operationalizes the concept by offering a diagnostic measure to further test it. (Author)

As the marriage enrichment movement develops, nationally and internationally, the question of standards governing the services provided by leader couples becomes of critical importance. This paper examines the main programs now being offered. (Author)

This paper suggests a philosophy of supervision, recurring issues, and potential problems relevant to the supervisor of a candidate seeking admission to NAFL (National Alliance of Family Life). Since courses of this nature are rare, this paper seeks to outline major steps in supervision. (Author)

Presents an operational definition of intimacy and reviews evidence that a lack of intimacy is associated with nonpsychotic emotional illness, marital maladjustment, and family dysfunction. Describes and illustrates a technique, cognitive self-disclosure, which facilitates marital intimacy. Discusses the role of self-disclosure, modeling, and…

This paper points out a potential intersect between marriage counseling and developmental psychology. In so doing, it raises some questions about the possible widespread adoption of open marriage and its subsequent problems for marriage counseling. (Author)

This paper reviews data on the incidence of marital violence and recommends methods of intervention on a family and social level. Myths which may block awareness of this widespread problem are briefly described. Particular attention is given to the inadequacy of the catharsis hypothesis in explaining and treating marital violence. (Author)

Increased numbers of married students in college and high school suggests school counselors need to become more familiar with the principles and techniques of family counseling. The need for specialized skills and an appeal for help in acquiring them is presented, promoting a dialogue between school counselors and family therapists. (Author)

The fundamental dynamic in the troubled marriage is seen as pathological nurturance, i.e., the perversion of the sense of caring. Derived from the early role reversal, it leads the spouses to take up hopeless tasks of recompense and rescue. The result is resistive, discordant behaviors as a means of coping. (Author)

Explores advantages and disadvantages of behavioral marital therapy. Features of behavioral marital therapy implicated as important in the consideration of sex role issues include underlying assumptions of egalitarianism, external causality, and orientation toward action as well as specific procedures such as goal setting, behavioral exchange and…

Examines the development of standards for accreditation and licensure by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Presents a detailed description of the requirements for clinical membership. Suggests the American Personnel and Guidance Association might learn from AAMFT in designing accreditation programs. (Author/JAC)

One of the major polarizations in marriages of workaholic husbands is their pursuit of the "Great American Dream" while their wives are left to pursue the "Petty Realities of Life." Couples must learn to negotiate realistic and functional objectives for themselves, without avoiding the issues. (JAC)

The article considers the importance of the sexual dimension of marriage during middle age and beyond. "Traditional" and "New" norms concerning sexual behavior are examined. Implications for marriage counseling are discussed. (Author)

Loss through divorce, frequently involves a higher need for counseling than loss through death because the client frequntly receives a devalued self-concept when an active choice is made to terminate the relationship. The model presented has proven to be effective in assisting clients to reevaluate self-worth in a constructive manner. (Author)

Most marital difficulties are functions of childhood problems leading to childhood solutions. This paper emphasizes symbiotic aspects to marital problems in terms of the individual's existential position and his racket/racketeering behavior. The goal of treatment is to have the individual utilize resources for himself and negotiate resources for…

The study of causal attributions at the interpersonal level has been an integral part of attribution research. Unfortunately most attribution research has involved persons unfamiliar with each other. The marital relationship is an example of the need for understanding causal attributions among intimates. A striking feature of marital interaction…