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29 - New Ways of Theorizing and Conducting Research in the Field of Loneliness and Social Isolation

from Part VII - Threats to Relationships

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  11 June 2018

By
Jenny de Jong Gierveld ,
Theo G. van Tilburg  and
Pearl A. Dykstra
Edited by
Anita L. Vangelisti  and
Daniel Perlman
Anita L. Vangelisti
Affiliation:
University of Texas, Austin
Daniel Perlman
Affiliation:
University of North Carolina, Greensboro
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Summary

This chapter reviews the evolving field of evidence-based couple relationship education (RE). RE is aimed at helping couples sustain a mutually satisfying, committed relationship. In the chapter we analyze the social policy context within which the effectiveness of RE is important. We then describe two evidence-based approaches to RE: assessment with feedback, and curriculum-based RE. The research on the efficacy of these approaches are reviewed, as well as the moderators and mediators of RE effects. Later sections consider how to address the needs of diverse couples, including socially disadvantaged couples, diverse ethnicities, and same-sex couples. Finally, we conclude that RE is effective for some couples, and offer suggestions for future research to enhance effectiveness.

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The Cambridge Handbook of Personal Relationships , pp. 391 - 404
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2018

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