The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has updated its Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, including with new information specifically addressed to individuals in the European Economic Area. As described in the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, this website utilizes cookies, including for the purpose of offering an optimal online experience and services tailored to your preferences.

Please read the entire Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By closing this message, browsing this website, continuing the navigation, or otherwise continuing to use the APA's websites, you confirm that you understand and accept the terms of the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, including the utilization of cookies.

×
ArticlesFull Access

Relational Marital Paradigm

The relational marital paradigm presumes that those partners who trigger the strongest impulses of attraction and passionate feelings of love in each other are those who are most likely to marry. However, with time these feelings also awaken memories of the most horrible conflicts and nightmares experienced in the family of origin. The subconscious intention is that the primary drama will, this time, be resolved with more positive outcomes. Relational marital therapy, therefore, sets a new milestone in understanding. It is a different approach to therapeutic practice that is based on the therapeutic relationship/alliance, which addresses and resolves the deepest psychobiological states and affects and brings new potential for better quality of relationships.