Subjects: General

Exposes myths and highlights research on the subject of “living together”. The lesson identifies the pros and cons of non-marital cohabitation and explains the dangers of “sliding” into as opposed to “deciding” on this form of commitment. Deciding factors discussed by the class include the statistical realities of cohabitation, the conflicting male-female expectations about cohabitation, and the surprising correlations between cohabitation, divorce, and general dissatisfaction.

Draws a distinction between problem relationships that can be salvaged and those that cannot. Class discussion focuses on the “red flags” that signal trouble in a relationship or marriage. Students receive helpful hints for making even the most difficult relationships happy and fulfilling, including how to get beyond volatile hot buttons, how to find joint passion with your partner, and how to recognize a losing battle when you see one.

Explores how the motivations behind commitment affect its consequences. The class learns the difference between “constraint” commitment and “dedicated” commitment, and lecture reveals how the two commitment styles correlate with stability and happiness. Discussion touches on such factors as the social and financial “survival” benefits of both commitment styles, the value of friendship in a love relationship, and how commitment to one person invariably alters outside relationships with others.

Explores the attitude and behavior shifts required to sustain a relationship. Lecture outlines the distinction between two situations: when expressing your expectations is good for the relationship and when it will only make things worse. Strategies for handling both situations are discussed. The lesson also explores the value of humor, the up side of clashing viewpoints, and how gender differences affect how apologies are relayed and perceived.

Explains how gender expectations cause stress for men in committed relationships. The Studio Class compares their thoughts on this subject with statistical research findings. The lesson points out how monogamy is a choice tied directly to intentions and morals, why a woman’s superior earning power is a threat for most men, and what three factors embody the answer to the question “What do women want?”

Further explores relationship stressors from a woman’s point of view. The class learns further how brain biology affects relationship perceptions. Discussion topics reveal how verbal skills may not always translate into communication skills, why blame is perceived differently by the opposing sexes, and how women are stressed by increased expectations in the workplace that have yet to affect a decrease of expectations on the home front. The lesson also outlines the three things men need to feel truly committed to a relationship.

Identifies the challenges and benefits of matrimony. The lesson focuses on how marriage affects the many aspects of life and includes research on how marriage is tied to health and self-esteem, how it can create “social capital” that advances us in society, how it affects family routines, rituals, and support for children, and how it can help us mature and grow both as individuals and as citizens at large.

Answers the question, “Who is responsible for my happiness?” The lesson offers suggestions for a balanced, pro-active pursuit of personal happiness. Students learn how to transform negative criticism into positive communication for improved relations, how genetics plays a role in our capacity for happiness, and how the pursuit of hedonistic “highs” predisposes us to addiction and stress.

Do military marriages have special challenges and needs? This special bonus video allows students to learn about the unique situations that arise in military marriages. As you view the video, consider the challenges that confront military couples in building a solid and loving marriage.

Discusses the pros and cons of casual sex. Investigative reporters and relationship experts present the advantages and disadvantages of “hooking up”. Discussion reveals how gender affects our perceptions of casual sex, and emphasizes the importance of safe-sex awareness.