This book describes and evaluates the major contributions social, developmental, and clinical psychologists have made to a scientific understanding of marriage. The book's objective: to foster a deeper appreciation of the knowledge gained from basic and applied psychological research on the marital relationship as well as a better understanding of the issues, assumptions, and controversies that confront researchers and practitioners in the field.

Systematically addressing theoretical, methodological, and applied issues in the study of marriage, this ambitious volume shows how this accumulated knowledge informs the practitioner's attempts to cope with practical problems.

Among the fundamental issues examined in Part I are

* the social psychology of marriage

* research methods in the study of marital interdependence

* observation of marital interaction

* cognition in marriage

* gender differences and sex-role identity

* the impact of children on marriage

* employment and marital functioning

* marriage and psychopathology.

Focusing on the translation of research into practical interventions, subsequent chapters discuss the prevention and treatment of marital dysfunction, spouse abuse, and sexual dysfunction. Also featured is a review of theoretical orientations in the treatment of marital discord.

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF MARRIAGE brings together the work of leading experts in marital research and therapy, each of whom provides a cogent overview of a particular area of clinical research while illuminating the problems frequently encountered in its practical implementation. This authoritative synthesis and update of contemporary psychological research on the marital relationship is a valuable resource for investigators seeking a comprehensive overview of marital research and practitioners wishing to strengthen their skills and learn about the empirical bases for their interventions. The work is suitable for advanced undergraduate or graduate courses on close relationships, marriage, marital therapy, and the family.