1. Relationship Education for Singles

2. Jennifer L. Baker, Psy.D. Anne B. Summers, Ph.D. Debbi Steinmann, M.A. Training Instructor / Mentors Melissa A. Gibson, M.S. Kim Rozell, M.A. Graduate Assistants Brent Anderson, M.S. Matthew Biller, M.A. Cate Brandon, M.A Dawn Clinard, M.A. Jessie Clinton, M.S. Tabitha Carlson, M.S. Anup Jonathan Tony Larson, B.A. Nicole Mannis, M.A. Robert Mindrup, M.S.S.W. Colleen Quinn, Ph.D. Amber Schafer, M.A. Amanda Schroeder, B.S. The Training for the Healthy Marriage and Family Formation curriculum was created through the cooperative efforts of:

3. Importance of Early Relationship Education Early romantic experiences play a central role in development and ability to be intimate. Opposite sex interaction and relationships influence the course of subsequent romantic relationships and marriage.

4. Importance of Early Relationship Education 40-50% of 15–16 year olds are in a romantic relationship. Many adolescents do not have a model of a healthy relationship in their family or friendship networks. Many have low expectations for marriage. A majority of teens want an affectionate, healthy, lasting marriage.

5. Importance of Early Relationship Education Expectations for emotional quality and companionship in marriage are increasing, sometimes leading to unrealistic expectations. Early exposure to representations of love and sex in the media, lead to unrealistic expectations. Relationships require more flexibility than in the past.

6. Importance of Early Relationship Education Expectations for emotional quality and companionship in marriage are increasing, sometimes leading to unrealistic expectations. Early exposure to representations of love and sex in the media, lead to unrealistic expectations. Relationships require more flexibility than in the past.

7. Adolescent Views on Marriage Over 80% of students had a desire to get married, and 60% believed that a lifelong commitment to marriage is very likely. Approximately 60% of these students expressed a positive attitude toward cohabitation.

8. Commission on Children at Risk The decline in mental and behavioral health of children is largely due to current societal structure, which does not recognize our innate need for human connectedness.

9. Commission on Children at Risk Belonging is critical and biologically necessary. Religion and spirituality are preventative factors. Fundamental change in societal structure is needed. Authoritative communities: strong families, schools, religious congregations, and youth organizations foster connectedness.

10. Three Myths About Adolescent Relationships 1.Adolescent relationships are trivial and transitory. 2.Romantic relationships simply mirror other relationships in adolescents’ lives. 3.Romantic experiences in adolescence are associated with behavior problems, substance use, and problems in school.

11. Benefits of Adolescent Relationships Self-esteem and well-being Identity Career Development

12. Five Factors that Influence Romantic Relationship Quality Involvement: age, frequency, consistency Partner selection Content: variety of activities Quality of relationship Cognitive and emotional processes

13. Available Programs Connections + PREP® Relationships and Marriage P.I.C.K. a Partner (How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk/(ette) TM Within My Reach TM

14. Topics in Relationship Education for Adolescents & Young Adults Improving insight. Evaluating physical and emotional safety. Influence of family background. Developing communication and conflict resolution skills.

15. Target Populations High School/College Low Income Singles of All Ages

16. High School/College Connections: Relationships & Marriage Promotes healthy interactions with peers, family, and in romantic relationships. Topics addressed: Personality Relationships Strengths and Weaknesses Communication Marriage

17. High School/College Connections: Relationships & Marriage Promotes healthy interactions with peers, family, and in romantic relationships. Topics addressed: Personality Relationships Strengths and Weaknesses Communication Marriage

18. Low-Income Individuals– Within My Reach TM Emphasis on evaluating safety Five Groups of Low-Income Clients –Marriage Track –“Maybe We Will” Couple –No Marriage Intention –Single Adults (usually mothers) –High School and Young Adults

19. Within My Reach to Attain Relationship Success Cultivate and stabilize viable relationships. Helping individuals escape damaging relationships. Choose future partners wisely. Assess a current relationship and determine future goals for the relationship.

20. Singles of All Ages: P.I.C.K. A Partner For never-married and divorced. Focus on evaluating a potential partner. Five Factors of Bonding –Getting to know the person –Developing trust –Learning to rely on the person –Forming a commitment –Expressing sexual touch

21. Websites Building Relationships: www.prepare-enrich.com Connections + PREP® & Love U2: www.buildingrelationshipskills.org Forest Institute of Psychology’s Marriage and Family Department: www.forest.edu/clinic/index.html Partners for Students: www.abanet.org/family/partners RQ: Building Relationship Intelligence: www.freteens.org/stories/curric-intro.htm The Loving Well Project: www.bu.edu/education/lovingwell The Dibble Fund: www.dibblefund.org

22. Questions