ABSTRACT
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-4th Ed. {DSM- IV) categories for relational problems, as defined by the American Psychiatric Association, include v61.1, Partner Relational Problem: “when the focus of clinical attention is a pattern of interaction between spouses or partners characterized by negative communication (e.g., criticisms), distorted communication (e.g., unrealistic expectations), or noncommunication (e.g., withdrawal) that is associated with clinically significant impairment in individual or family functioning or the development of symptoms in one or both partners” (APA, 1994, p. 681).
