ABSTRACT
The Relationship Attachment Model (RAM) provides the framework for the two relationship education programs: PICK a Partner (Premarital Interpersonal Choices and Knowledge) and Couple LINKS (Lasting Intimacy through Nurturing, Knowledge and Skills). A primary strength of the RAM is its outward simplicity. Although the RAM is a conceptual model that integrates major psychological theories and extensive social and psychological research, to a layperson the model can be understood with little to no explanation beyond the presentation of a picture. The PICK program has a guiding principle for developing a new relationship safely while exploring the faces of a partner, referred to as the 'safe zone'. This principle explains the interactions of the five independent constructs of the RAM. The five constructs of the model such as know, trust, rely, commit, and touch. The core of the LINKS course is to teach couples how to intentionally 'run their relationship' by regularly assessing their current strengths and vulnerabilities with the RAM.
