3 credits
no prerequisites
Meets CLE requirement of: Historical Perspectives and Social Science Diversified Curriculum; Cultural Diversity Designated Theme

Focuses on couple dynamics and gives an overview of how intimate relations develop and are maintained. Relationship skills and issues including communication, conflict resolution, sexuality, power and roles will be examined. Diverse forms of intimate relations are explored. Approaches to marriage preparation, marriage enrichment and marital therapy are described.

Upon completion of the course, the student will:

1. Demonstrate the ability to describe the nature of intimacy using multiple perspectives from developmental & social psychology, sociology, and family science.
   
2. Demonstrate the ability to assess quality of intimate relationships using multiple dimensions and describe ways of maintaining and improving relationship quality.
   
3. Demonstrate the ability to describe the issues faced by couples in relationships facing special challenges and how they cope.
   
4. Demonstrate the ability to integrate concepts and principles from the science of human relationships into his or her own personal approach to relationships.
   
5. Demonstrate the ability to identify societal and cultural influences especially in the area of gender and power differences on relationship quality.

9 hours per week, including class time

Prager, Karen, J. 1997. The Psychology of Intimacy. Guilford Press.

Lerner, Harriet. 1990. The Dance of Intimacy. Harper Collins.