Acknowledgments. Introduction. UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS ON THE ROAD TO LASTING LOVE. Four Hallmarks of a Great Relationship: PREP in a Nutshell. Destructive Patterns: Signs of Danger Ahead. Changing Roles, Changing Rules: Men and Women in Conflict. TEAM UP TO HANDLE CONFLICT. When What You Heard Isn't What I Said: Understanding Filters in Communication. Talking Safely Without Fighting: The Speaker--Listener Technique. Controlling the Home Fires: Handling Issues and Events Well. New Perspectives on Problems and Problem Solving. Keeping Conflict Under Control: Ground Rules for a Great Relationship. ENJOYING EACH OTHER. Safe Harbor: Preserving and Protecting Friendship. Playing Together: How to Succeed in Fun Without Really Trying. Sense and Sensuality: Enhancing and Protecting Your Sex Life. Core Beliefs and Spiritual Intimacy. STAYING THE COURSE. Why You Can't Always Get What You Want: Unraveling the Mysteries of Expectations. Forgiveness: Restoring Hope. Sticking, Stuck, or Stopped: On the Path to Commitment. What to Do Now. Some Thoughts on Domestic Violence. Resources and Training. Selected Research and References. About the Authors. Index.