at being said, the specific goals for this couple include:
1) A reduction in communicative weaknesses and a
strengthening of communication channels between Luis and
Rachel that emphasizes nonargumentative communication
as measured by self-reports from both spouses.
2) The development of a willingness to trust one
another on the part of both Rachel and Luis, also as
measured by self-report statements over time.
3) The elimination of physical violence and verbal
abuse directed against Rachel by Luis measured by
4) A reduction in or elimination of the incidence of
infidelity and a general improvement in the intimate,
sexual relationship enjoyed by the couple.
5) Commitment of both Rachel and Luis to a stable,
trusting, communicative, and mutually supportive marriage
with well-defined indicators of stability including the
elimination of infidelity, employment for Luis, and Rachel's continuation of her college education.
Various psychological tests and measures will be included in order to identify progress over the course of any of the therapies discussed below. Specifically, measures of sexual jealousy, cognitive dimensions of emotion, and assessing the strength of relationships will be employed. Nannini and Meyers (2000) described these types of measures as extremely useful in determining the degree to which couples are coping with the stressors within intimate relationships and their responses to therapy if therapy is offered.
Use of an instrument such as the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) is also indicated. Garfield and Bergin (1995) have stated that the BDI is an excellent, reliable, and valid tool for assessing depression which is also sensitive to anxiety. Given that Rachel has presented with suicidal ideation in the past, and has actually attempted suicide, the BDI is clearly indicated in order to determine treatment efficacy and to assess Rach...