Marital Education Programs

A framework has been developed for marital education programs (Hawkins, Carroll, Doherty, & Willoughby (2004). This framework includes seven dimensions. The first asks what is to be taught. At this point, relationship skills, attitudes and motivation of the client are assessed (Hawkins et al, 2004). The second dimension seeks to understand the intensity of the intervention that will be needed. At the lowest level, public health assistance will use techniques “such as media campaigns” (Hawkins et al, 2004, p.549). Moderate level may include day seminars with high level dosage include longer committed meetings and learning experiences (Hawkins et al, 2004). The third dimension of the marital education framework focuses on methods of application based on how the subject matter is learned. The instructor, learning styles, and relationship maintenance are the focus of this element. The fourth dimension, Hawkins et al, (2004) refers to is the timing. The life stage of the recipients is crucial to understand when working with clients. Newly married individuals are at a far different stage of life than that of a long term married couple and will require different subject matter being taught. The final dimension is the setting, or where the educational activities will occur. Different settings include clients homes, religious institutions, local communities as well as many other locations could be a base for educational programs (Hawkins et al, 2004). The …show more content…
These programs have shown moderate success and must continue to be researched to include a broader range of a more diverse population. As helping professionals continue to learn and work with couples and individuals, many will see their marriages saved and relationships enhanced. By maintaining the core social work values, every person and marriage will be looked at with worth and offered the assistance