Fighting for Your Marriage

HOWARD J. MARKMAN, Ph.D., noted marital expert, is co-director of the Center for Marital and Family Studies at the University of Denver and specializes in research on the prediction and prevention of marital breakdown. SCOTT STANLEY, Ph.D., is co-director of the center and adjunct associate professor of marital and family therapy at Fuller Theological Seminary, and he specializes in research on marital commitment. SUSAN L. BLUMBERG, Ph.D., a psychologist who works with families and couples, has focused on training and research in the PREPTM approach.

HANDLING CONFLICT. Four Key Patterns That Can Harm a Relationship. The Differences Between Men and Women in Conflict. Communicating Clearly and Safely: The Speaker-Listener Technique. Problem Solving. Ground Rules for Handling Conflict. DEALING WITH CORE ISSUES. The Difference Between Issues and Events. Unfulfilled Expectations and What to Do About Them. Understanding Commitment. The Power of Commitment. Forgiveness and the Restoration of Intimacy. ENHANCEMENT. Preserving and Protecting Friendship. Increasing Your Fun Together. Enhancing Your Sex Life. The Importance of Core Belief Systems. Positive Steps for Keeping Your Relationship Strong.