Lee Williams

An empirical approach to designing marriage preparation programs

Individuals married 1-8 years were surveyed to assess their perceptions of the helpfulness of marriage preparation and specific aspects of their experience. Two thirds of the respondents perceived marriage preparation as a valuable experience, but the perceived value declined with the length of marriage. Aspects of marriage preparation rated most helpful included providing time for couples to learn about each other, using a team of providers, addressing the Five Cs (communication, commitment, conflict resolution, children and church), and having 8-9 sessions.

Religious heterogamy and religiosity: A comparison of interchurch and same-church individuals

Based on a national sample of Christian couples, interchurch respondents reported lower levels of religiosity than same-church respondents on a number of religious variables. Respondents in same-church marriages were similar in religiosity regardless of whether the relationship was initially interchurch or same-church. The study did not find evidence that interchurch respondents were more likely than same-church individuals to drift away from church practice. Strength of denominational identity at engagement was the strongest predictor of religious behavior among interchurch respondents, while church attendance at engagement was the strongest predictor among same-church respondents. Interchurch respondents and their spouses were less likely to emphasize religion in raising children than same-church respondents, and were more likely to differ as a couple on their emphasis on religion in raising children. Interchurch parents predominantly raise their children exclusively in one parents church, although 12 percent reported raising their children in both churches.

A biopsychosocial model for treating infertility

With approximately one out of six married couples experiencing infertility, having a basic knowledge of infertility is important to marriage and family therapists. This paper presents important themes that infertile couples often struggle with and stresses the importance of having a biological, psychological, and social understanding of infertility. In addition, the paper suggests possible interventions that family therapists can use in helping infertile couples.

Premarital counseling: A needs assessment among engaged individuals

Although engaged individuals are the primary consumers of premarital counseling, no previous research has explored their perceptions regarding marriage preparation. This article reports what engaged individuals believe are the important areas to address when preparing couples for marriage. It also explores other attitudes and preferences that engaged individuals have toward marriage preparation.

Marital Satisfaction and Religious Heterogamy A Comparison of Interchurch and Same-Church Individuals

Using a national sample of Christians, this study compared interchurch and same-church respondents on several relationship variables and explored possible predictors of marital satisfaction. Interchurch and same-church respondents were not different on marital satisfaction or other nonreligious relationship variables but were different on several religious relationship variables. The relationship between marital satisfaction and religious heterogamy was dependent on how religious heterogamy was operationalized. Communication was the most important predictor of marital satisfaction for both interchurch and same-church respondents. Parenting variables were also predictive of marital satisfaction for both interchurch and same-church respondents.

The utility of the myers-briggs perspective in couples counseling: A clinical framework

Abstract This paper outlines a step-by-step clinical framework for using the Myers-Briggs personality preferences in couples therapy. The paper also discusses how a Myers-Briggs perspective can be useful in facilitating couple communication.

Guidelines for an Effective Transfer of Cases: The Needs of the Transfer Triad

Transferring cases from one therapist to another is a common occurrence, particularly in agency settings where therapists do training. Despite its prevalence, there is relatively little literature on the topic. The literature that does exist suggests that transferring cases can present challenges to both clients and therapists. In addition to reviewing existing literature, the article examines the transfer process from the perspective of the client, the departing therapist, and the incoming therapist. The article explores the needs that each member of the transfer triad may have, as well as strategies for meeting those needs.

The impact of stress on marital quality: A stress-vulnerability theory

This article outlines a stress-vulnerability theory for describing how stress impacts marital quality. Implications for therapy are also discussed based on the stress-vulnerability theory.

Choosing an MFT Internship: Ingredients of a Successful Experience.

Abstract Although internships are now required for MFT doctoral students, little has been written about internships. This article outlines key factors doctoral students need to consider when selecting an internship site.

Strategies for Dealing with Clients We Dislike

Therapists frequently encounter clients they dislike. Surprisingly, however, there is little in the literature on this topic. The literature that does exist offers little guidance on how to deal with this problem when it arises. The purpose of this article is to explore possible reasons a therapist may dislike a client, as well as strategies that a therapist can use when the problem is encountered. Implications for clinical training are also briefly discussed.