Abstract This paper emphasizes the need for better communications to keep relationships vibrant and healthy in marriage. The author contrasts the communications need and the styles of men and women. The paper points out the challenges of human communication in long term relationships.
From the Paper "Marriage as well as other personal relationships represents a challenging and intriguing context in which to examine communication structures."
Tags:marriage, married life, communications, goals of better marriage, saving marriage
Abstract This paper looks at the growing acceptance of gay and lesbian relationships in society, as well as homosexual marriages. The author focuses specifically on Toronto's Metropolitan Community Church, led by the Reverend Brent Hawkes, which offers the gay community vast support for the lifestyle, and performs controversial marriage ceremonies.
Tags: brent, church, community, hawkes, metropolitan, reverend, toronto
Abstract This paper describes and compares three theories, which serve as the basis for successful intervention and therapy in the treatment of marriage and family systems: strategic communications (systemic), solution focused (constructivist) and object relations (psychodynamic) theories. The author uses the film "When a Man Loves a Woman", directed by Luis Mandoki (1994) as the case study. The paper analyzes this case study by means of the three theories.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Theories
Strategic Communications Theory
Solutions Focused Therapy
Object Relations
The Case Study
From the Paper "The dynamics of Alice's rehabilitation are those as experienced by families in the real world in the sense that it has a tendency to create a new social circle for the patient, separate and apart from the family co-counseling aspect of treatment. When the patient, the family, enters this new social realm of therapy and support within a group therapeutic setting, it leaves Alice's husband, Michael, feeling left out, inadequate because he cannot be the source of her healing, and jealous of Alice's trust and confidence in the group that she has by virtue of her disease now become a part of."
Abstract This paper examines how marriage and family are one of the most important areas of sociology, how society is brought up in a family context and how marriage is a very pervasive social institution. It looks at how, in modern European society, more women are working outside the home and demanding an equal share of the decision-making power in the family. It talks about the changing state of marriage and the family in modern European society and also adds the dark side of it. The aim is to show the reader the rapidly change of family and marriage which has become a very serious social problem and has led European society to crisis.
From the Paper "Marriage has become increasingly dissociated from parenthood. This has
happened in three main ways: the number of childless couples has been
rising, children are increasingly born outside marriage and the rising rate
of divorce separate children's parents (Sociology, 1999:380). The rate of families with dependent children has increased since the beginning of the 1970s (Social Trends, 1996:43) (fig 2). In 1961, 2 per cent of the population lived in households consisting of a lone parent with dependent children, but by 1998 this had increased to 7 per cent."
Tags: crisis, european, family, independent, marriage, society, thought, women
Abstract In this article the writer examines the subject of same-sex marriage. The writer discusses the efforts of the gay and lesbian communities in order to achieve legal and social endorsement of their relationships. Further, the writer examines why the issue of same-sex marriage is so contentious.
From the Paper "Throughout the continuous political agitation of the gay and lesbian movement and its success in other issues such as the custody of children and the right of adoption, same-sex couples have persistently fought for the legal endorsement of same-sex marriages. Since their inception, lesbian and gay rights' groups have incorporated same-sex marriages as one of their demands for legal reforms. Even though they have not succeeded in legalizing same-sex marriages, gay and lesbian groups have made significant progress in acquiring the ... "
Abstract This paper examines the thesis that economic deprivation is the major factor that has seriously eroded the institution of marriage within the African-American community. It also explores how it is the changing family structure that has also created economic and social implications. It attempts to show how any effort at remedying this dismal picture would necessitate a revival on the economic front for which education holds the key.
From the Paper "In general the level of education among the African Americans is relatively low. In 1998 they composed 13% of the US population but only 7% managed to get their bachelor degree. [Arizona State University]. The scarcity of jobs implied an economic catastrophe for the African American community and this problem was compounded by the breakdown of the extended family structure into separate households barring them from any kind of support, which an extended family would offer. Poor economic status of the male partner has also created female family heads (change in family structure) and increased instances of single parenthood. [Williams et.al ]"
Abstract This paper discusses the drama of Henrik Ibsen's "A Doll's House" and Gustave Flaubert's "Madame Bovary." The paper views the two works in tandem in order to paint a more complete picture of the failures inherent in 19th century marriage ideology. The paper suggests that, viewed individually, the works do not provide as clear a picture of this ideology.
From the Paper "Unlike Torvald, Charles approves of and facilitates his wife's indulgences because he derives pleasure from them and lacks Torvald's frugal and controlling character. Yet the division between the worlds of men and women in Madame Bovary still lays the grounds for an unhappy and uncommunicative marriage, just as it does in "A Doll's House." Because of Charles' lack of understanding of what such frivolities mean to Emma--they symbolize her longing for a romantic, sensual life that will take her away from him--a rift between husband and wife is created that is just as profound and damaging as Torvald's incomprehension of how his isolation of Nora from the real world will divide the two of them."
A review and discussion of the book ""Fighting for your Marriage: Positive Steps for Preventing Divorce and Preserving a Lasting Love." authored by Howard Markman, Scott Stanley, and Susan Blumberg.
Abstract This paper explains that Markman, Stanley and Blumberg's, book "Fighting for your Marriage: Positive Steps for Preventing Divorce and Preserving a Lasting Love," is one of the many self-help books available and, on the surface, appears to be little different .The paper then comments that the difference is found rather quickly, however, as it is a preventive book rather than a 'fixit' book. Moreover, the book focuses on the construction of the relationship in order to help it weather storms and it offers uncomplicated and relevant information that, upon reading, seems like obvious truisms. The paper concludes that this book is a strong reminder that there are people out there genuinely concerned about the problem of divorce who are attempting to take a non-theistic approach to this seeming epidemic.
From the Paper "What advice the authors give, however, in this section is filled with the kind of "wouldn't it be great if everyone would do this" sort of optimism. They promote each person "investing" (195) in the relationship, and they promote the idea that even if one person is investing more than the other, that person will be encouraging the other to step up their game. But, what about the couple where there is a true imbalance, with one person being involved in the marriage and the other being dissonant and distant? The book simply says - the other will have to try and put an effort in. The problem, though, is that there is little advice, other than to "practice" and "seek counseling" to assist when one partner is so obstinate as to not become involved in the process at all."
Abstract The paper examines community property law in relation to the separate property of each spouse and the real estate which either spouse acquires. The paper then explains community property versus joint tenancy, the differences in the community property system versus common law marital property system and the community property systems in times of divorce. The paper also discusses the laws of community property with regard to inequities of income splitting, creditors and death of the spouse. The paper shows how community property law promotes equity as well as efficiency but with certain drawbacks.
Outline:
Introduction
Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper "Everything that a husband and wife possess together falls under Community Property. This normally includes all the debts incurred, money earned and all the property attained during the marriage period. The following are classified as the joint property of a married couple by community property states: (a) any income obtained during the marriage by either spouse; (b) any personal property or real property attained through the income earned during the period of marriage- it includes home, vehicles, appliances, furniture, luxury items, etc; (c) any debts acquired in the course of the marriage. Under the law of community property, everything is owned as well as owed by the spouses immaterial of the fact as to who has spent or earned the income. ("The Ins and Outs of Community Property Law", n. d.)"
Abstract This paper examines how there are currently two different strands of discussion dealing with the causes of domestic violence, or more specifically, the causes of male violence toward women. The first strand is feminist in tone, linking violence against women directly to sexism. The second strand is more generally psychological, viewing violence against women as the product of a multitude of factors. Through an extensive literature review, this paper looks at how violence is motivated and its relationship with the level of communication between the married couple as well as its treatment.
Outline
Introduction
Methodological Issues
Communication Problems and Violence
Differing Approaches
Treatment
Conclusions
From the Paper "It is also helpful to distinguish between types of abusers. In one recent, complex study, Jacobson and Gottman (1998) identified two different types of abusive men. One type - the Pit Bull - is depicted as driven by insecurity and dependence, while the other type - the Cobra - tends to view violence simply as part of life. The former type has more potential for change through the teaching of new skills, including communication skills. The Cobra, however, is described as more violent and more intractably violent. These are individuals who may have sufficient interpersonal skills, but may not use them."
Abstract This paper asserts that unhappy marriages do not always justify divorce. The elaborates on this assertion, stating that divorce is not always necessary for every unhappy marriage and that happy marriages that are healthy but unhappy for superficial reasons are often capable of salvation as long as both partners are equally motivated to make the necessary changes. The paper then points out, however, that, conversely, divorce is more advisable where either partner is not willing to make the changes necessary to improve the marriage, and especially, where partners chose each other in the first place for dysfunctional reasons, or progressed to marriage immaturely. The paper then discusses the differences between salvageable and unsalvageable marriages.
Outline
Salvageable vs. Unsolvable Marriages Conclusion
From the Paper "In general principle, some marriages are potentially salvageable because even though they may have evolved into unhappiness, they did so by virtue of relatively superficial reasons. Conversely, other marriages are completely impossible to improve, because the factors accounting for their evolution into unhappiness are not superficial, but rather, due to fundamental incompatibilities between the partners (Kasl 1998). Sometimes, in fact, marriages whose unhappiness was originally caused by relatively superficial reasons generate so much conflict and perpetual resentment that it is simply impossible ever to rekindle the mutual feelings of romantic love and genuine affection that are prerequisites to happiness in marriage."
Abstract Gay and lesbian marriage has become a controversial debate in contemporary society. There are heated arguments for and against the legalization of marriage between couples of the same sex. This paper explains that the underlying assumption for those in favor of gay marriages is that the central aspects of love, relationship, and understanding should override all other issues. However, this paper argues that the situation is not quite that simple. There are numerous factors that militate against the acceptance of gay marriage as an institution in modern society. The paper points out that gay marriages have the potential to create serious problems with regard to a range of very important social and cultural issues that make marriages of this nature untenable in modern society.
From the Paper "The argument that I wish to propose is not based on any of these perceptions or views. The central argument against the institution of gay and lesbian marriage has nothing to do with assumptions and judgments about homosexuality, and neither do I wish to deprive people of their intrinsic and inalienable democratic rights. Rather the objection to same-sex marriage is simply based on the fact that it contributes to the downfall of society; more particularly the institution of the family - the foundation of society - and subsequently will impact negatively on the development of children within the society. Therefore, the argument against gay marriage that I propose is based purely on practical and societal considerations."
Abstract This paper considers both sides of the argument for and against same-sex marriage. The author looks at traditional marriage and how it has changed over recent years. The paper examines the conservative views of traditional marriage, that of the Church, and discusses reasons why same-sex marriages would devalue traditional marriage.
From the Paper "With a recent lifting of the ban of the right to same-sex marriages in Massachusetts, sociologist, Kersti Yllo, says that same-sex marriage recognizes the basic humanity of each of us, but that it will definitely threaten traditional marriage and even change ..."
Abstract In this article, the meaning of the institution of marriage is discussed. The writer looks at the place of same-sex marriage in society. In this paper, same-sex marriage is primarily discussed from a conservative religious perspective. The views and outlook of supports of the concept of same-sex marriage is also described and critiqued. Although the gay and lesbian movement consider the prohibition of same-sex marriages to be discrimination, the writer views the position of marriage as a moral and religious institution.
From the Paper "In recent years the legalization of same-sex marriages has become an increasingly controversial issue that pits the gay and lesbian movement against religious conservatives. According to the gay and lesbian movement, the prohibition of same-sex marriages constitutes social oppression and discrimination. This paper however takes the position, adopted by the religious conservative movement. Marriage is a religious and moral institution that is confined to a monogamous relationship between a man and woman. Derived from the religious scriptures ... "
Abstract This paper deals with the same sex marriage issue and analyzes the problems with it. The paper discusses how there is a general move toward the acceptance of gay marriages. It then states reasons why these marriages should not be legitimized or practiced. It is the aim of this opinionated paper to give the reader sound knowledge of the reasons to oppose same sex marriages.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Same Sex Marriage References
From the Paper "A family's primary focus is on the nurturing and development of children. Same sex marriages are denying the children their right to have a father and a mother. Changing the definition of marriage and including same sex marriage same can have far-reaching changes that can influence the development of children. By changing the definition of marriage and including same sex marriage in that, one is changing the family dynamics and societal structures as well. Firstly same sex couples cannot have any children together as it is biologically impossible. What females can do is that they can either opt to adopt a child or go for test tube babies. If they do undergo in-vitro fertilization, they must use the sperms of the male. What more obvious a hint can nature give them that same sex marriage is not a part or plan of nature. The males in a same sex marriage have no option but to adopt a child. During the upbringing and nurturing of a child, both maternal and paternal care is required. He needs the love of a father as much as the love of a mother and there is no way that an adopted child can be given the love of a father as well as a mother. Only the love of two fathers can be given or two mothers and the love of two fathers or two mothers do not equal the love of a mother and a father."
