Reflection Paper
One of the most important concepts I have learnt in this course is about mate selection. The concept is important because acts like the foundation of a marriage (J. H. Lauer & J. C. Lauer, 2009). Every person has a responsibility to choose the person he or she would like to marry. With the changing trend, the choose of partner is no longer in the hands parents or other close relatives as it was in the olden days, but it is left in the hands of young people who are inexperienced in the area. Unfortunately, instead of choosing life partners based on the personal qualities, young people are romance driven resulting to wrong chooses and consequential problems.
The second concept I have learnt in the course is how to solve conflicts when they occur in marriages. Since conflicts are normal in any healthy relationship, it is important for the couples to learn to address their problems using the appropriate approaches. In addition, learning how to deal with conflicts will sustain the marriages even facing challenging moments. Some of the approaches that couple can use to address their conflicts include the spontaneous approach, the delayed approach and the planned approach.
Another important concept I have learnt in this course is the role of communication in a marriage relationship. Communication act as a link that connects spouses in a marriage set up, and when it is not flowing, there will be many problems (J. H. Lauer & J. C. Lauer, 2009). It is paramount for growth of any relationship, and couples ought to learn how to communicate effectively with each other. The challenges arises due to the fact me and women communicate differently and for different reasons.
Applying these three concepts is very important in addressing many challenges that are facing marriage relationships in the United Arab Emirates. There are many cases of separation and divorce in the country that are arising from wrong choice of marriage partners, communication breakdown and inability of spouses to communicate effectively. Although the three concepts can be applied just the way they are, it will be better if they are adjusted in order to fit the culture of UAE. For instance, mate selection can tuned to involve parents and other close relatives in terms of advice and experience. Application of the Communication concept may also put into consideration the position of each gender in the UAE’s culture.
References
Lauer, J. H. & Lauer, J. C. (2009). Marriage and Family: The Quest for Intimacy, 8th Ed. New York: McGraw-Hill.
