2: Relationships
During Adulthood
Pair bonding is globally acknowledged as the
life-long, monogamous relationship that many individuals strive to achieve.
With roots in attachment theory, pair bonding in adulthood has been viewed as
following a developmental pattern similar to that which individuals experience
with primary caregivers. Fraley and Shaver (2000) noted that “adults typically
feel safer and more secure when their partner is nearby, accessible, and
responsive” (p. 132). A pair bond can provide a sense of security—an emotional
“shelter” and safe place in which one can be vulnerable. Pair bonding is
biologically driven. Its manifestations vary widely depending on individual
life experiences, expectations, and constructs about self and others.
With this in mind, think about whether you
believe adult pair bonding is the same as marriage. If pair bonding is a
biological, innate part of being human, why might so many marriages and
relationships fail?
For this homework, review the Learning Resources
and consider influences on and motivations for pair bonding. Briefly explain the following
:
A description of two
influences on or motivations for pair bonding. Then, explain two benefits and two challenges in maintaining
stable, long-term relationships in adulthood.
2. Be sure to include how environmental and/or
socio-cultural influences impact pair bonding.
3. Finally, explain how relationship challenges
may motivate individuals to seek assistance from a counselor. Justify your
response with theories from the Learning Resources and current literature.
4.
Offer and support one
strategy or counseling approach that might be used to provide services to an
adult facing the relationship challenges identified by a colleague
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