Today's divorce epidemic reflects the rise of many social forces that can pull even the happiest couple apart. In fact, many of us hold deeply ingrained attitudes and assumptions that work against long-term marital happiness.
From renowned family therapist Dr. William J. Doherty, this book helps couples pinpoint hidden marital problems and take positive steps to stay close and connected every day. Readers learn to break free of such common traps as confusing desires with needs, applying a trade-in-the-old-model consumer mentality to one's own spouse, or becoming overtime parents instead of full-time partners. They get suggestions for creating relationship rituals that stand the test of time; from mundane to celebratory, sexy to silly. For young couples who want to hold tight to happily-ever-after, or longtime marrieds on the brink of breakup, this book shows how to fight back to restore a marriage worth saving.
Table of Contents:
Introduction. Take Back Your Marriage. Resisting Consumer Marriage. Don't Lose Your Marriage to Your Kids. Take Back Time for Your Marriage. Resist Family and Friends Who Would Undermine Your Marriage. Resist Therapists Who Threaten Your Marriage. Preventing Unnecessary Divorce. Intentional Marriage: Connection Rituals in Everyday Life. Intentional Marriage: Love Rituals. Intentional Marriage: Anniversaries and Other Special Occasions. Every Marriage Supported by a Community. Taking Action for Your Marriage.
About the Author :
William J. Doherty, PhD, is Professor and Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at the University of Minnesota. Past President of the National Council on Family Relations, Dr. Doherty was named one of America's 10 most innovative therapists by the Utne Reader. His numerous books include Take Back Your Kids.
Review :
"This book offers wise and timely advice on marriage from one of America's favorite therapists." --Mary Pipher, PhD, author of Reviving Ophelia and Another Country "Though love feels magical, a loving marriage is anything but magic. There are definite formulas to marriages that work and those that don't. Take Back Your Marriage uncovers the insidious forces working against lasting love and commitment, and offers down-to-earth methods to guard against and overcome them. It reminds and inspires us to take our marriages off the back burner and give them the attention and care they require to turn 'I do' into 'I still do.'" --Michele Weiner-Davis, author of Divorce Busting (and The Divorce Remedy, forthcoming)
"Take Back Your Marriage is full of wisdom and realism. Bill Doherty is one of America's most experienced and knowledgeable family experts. He tells us how to take back our marriages from consumerism, frantic activity, our kids, misguided counselors, and well-intentioned family members. This is a desperately needed and welcome message." --Don Browning, PhD, coauthor of From Culture Wars to Common Ground: Religion and the American Family Debate
"Great--a guide to making good marriages better! Doherty is an optimistic therapist of clear values, uncommon wisdom, and unimpeachable humanity. In the engaging Take Back Your Marriage, he dissects the disordered priorities, expectations, and commitments, the bad therapists and destructive support systems, that doom so many marriages. He offers rituals of love and play that could revive any but the deadest unions. What a lovely and empowering way of looking at life and the things--like a loved and loving partner--that make it worth living." --Frank Pittman, MD, author of Grow Up!: How Taking Responsibility Can Make You A Happy Adult
"While it is primarily for married couples and those considering marriage, this book is also beneficial for therapists and professional leaders....it is applicable to those who are considering any type of partnership/relationship....chapters are inviting, engaging, and readable....a book for couples and can be used as a companion for those in therapy. It will also serve as an excellent text for marriage enrichment programs. Pastors and church educators will find Doherty's approach to marriage and family affirming of the work of their community of faith and practical for ministry within the congregation."--"Family Ministry"
"Doherty's book offers solutions."--"St. Croix Valley Press" and "White Bear Press"
