This article, using sexual exclusivity as an indication of commitment to a partner, examines commitment within dating, cohabitation, and marriage. In the present context, changes in sexual norms have led to an increase in sexual activity outside of marriage. This rise in nonmarital sex has been accompanied by an increase in cohabitation. Having a secondary […]
This federally funded guide shares what is known about promising practices in healthy marriage and relationship (HMR) programs, especially those serving low-income and culturally diverse populations. It is intended to be helpful to a variety of audiences, including those who are interested in starting a new program, those already involved in running a program, and […]
Tribal regulation of marriage is an example of tribal government and tribal court using the legal system to reclaim traditional values and to resist (at least in part) the dominant values imposed on the Navajo Nation. Identity as Diné (the Navajo’s term to refer to themselves) is based on clan affiliations, which are determined by […]
This fact sheet explores unique stepfamily characteristics and stepfamily dynamics. Data is shared on the number of stepfamilies, different types of stepfamilies, and nonresidential and cohabiting stepfamilies. It is estimated that between 10 and 20% of U.S. children reside in stepfamilies, and data is reported that indicates between 1997 and 2002, the percentage of stepfamilies […]
This guide provides practical strategies to help you recruit teens into your MRE services. Consider the following four tips: Know and be able to explain why teen marriage/relationship education matters Choose a setting and/or partnership Market your message Consider all your recruitment options (Author abstract)
This year’s feature essay, “”The Future of Marriage in America,”” a look at recent social trends shows that, while we are still the most marrying of Western nations, the United States is gradually moving towards the weaker marriage systems of other modern societies. This year’s updated index of trends in marriage, divorce, and cohabitation includes […]
The second part in a 3-part series, this brief explains effective strategies for active listening between couples. The strategies include: use body language that signals that you are listening intently to your partner; after the speaker has communicated their point, pause to reflect on what has been said and replay in your own words what […]
In addition to challenges all couples face in their relationships, military couples encounter difficult stressors unique to life in the armed services. Marriage education programs have the potential to provide military couples with the tools necessary to build healthy marriages. This exploratory study examines the effectiveness of the Active Military Life Skills Program (AMLS) in […]
The third part in a 3-part series, this brief explains common communication mistakes couples make including: criticism, sarcasm and cynicism, mounting a counter attack when feeling defensive, and engaging in the silent treatment. For each communication foul, an example is provided to illustrate the offending behavior and strategies are recommended for more effective communication. A […]
To explore the similarities and contrasts between poor and non-poor families, Child Trends analyzed data for more than 100,000 families from the 2003 National Survey of Children’s Health. Our results suggest that, although poor families experience socioeconomic disadvantages, these families may be enriched by the strengths found in their family routines and relationships. Specifically, we […]