One of the most critical and complex aspects of relationships is communication. Communication represents more than an expression of content. It also reflects values, beliefs, feelings based on prior development and influences. When these underlying elements of communication differ between two individuals who are not adept at constructive communication, the relationship suffers. When communication in couples is fraught with tension, negativity, and blame, the relationship deteriorates. According to a 1994 study in Personal Relationships; “mutually constructive communication is the strongest correlate of satisfaction in [a] relationship” (Elgin 1). For this reason, developing the skills that promote constructive communication is even more critical for successful relationships.
Constructive communication not only strengthens and adds satisfaction to a relationship, but it also helps individuals cope better when differences or problems arise. Personal habits of communication become ingrained before one enters a relationship with a significant other. Unfortunately, many individuals develop poor communication skills and lack the education to understand how to improve their skills in order to communicate in a more constructive and rewarding. Because of the widespread prevalence of communication difficulties in relationships, the psychological community is transforming its perspective of counseling those with such difficulties. As opposed to seeing the need to improve communication skills as a need for therapy, the community now views communication problems from an educational framework. The focus is now on teaching couples the skills necessary to promote constructive communication, as opposed to seeing communication problems as some kind of disorder. This new paradigm is called psychoeducation, and as psychologist Sherod Miller maintains, “Having a good relationship is a skill...Couples need
...