ABSTRACT
Relationships exist and are seen, interpreted, and experienced within a complex of ideologies. No single, universal ideological position governs how relationships are regarded, and there may be conflicts among the competing ideologies. Although relationships are rarely discussed in terms of ideology, their fundamentally ideological character is readily seen. Television talk shows graphically demonstrate such ideological components. Aspects of these ideologies may be shared between the general public and counselors/therapists, but inevitably they remain fundamentally ideological as ‘social facts’ must:
Close relationships promote psychological well being. It is good to talk. People in good sexual relations are closer than the closest of
close friends. Openness and honesty are fundamental and essential to
satisfactory relationships. Even if rules, of say, faithfulness, are violated, partners in close
relationships share emotional empathy. Violence in close relationships is prohibited, and failure in this
respect should lead to “walking out.”
