This course focuses on issues of love and intimacy, relationship development, sexuality, cohabitation, and marriage. It provides an overview of choices of mates and dating preferences, examines the ways that cultural, social, and personal factors shape these choices, and identify factors that contribute to happy and enduring relationships. Other topics covered in the course include planning for children, family formation, and parenting practices. We will also discuss common challenges facing love and marital relationships, including gender role, power and control, violence and abuse, and work and money.

CILO-1: Describe patterns of love and intimacy, relationship development, sexuality, cohabitation, and marriage. CILO-2: Explain how cultural, social, and personal factors influence partner selection and love relationships. CILO-3: Articulate the challenges in developing and maintaining a happy love or martial relationship. CILO-4: Describe the major styles of parenting and explain their influences on children and family life.