ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews salient couple therapy models that have influenced the creation of the Assimilative Family Therapy couple model. The role of intimacy, power and trust in a relationship will be reviewed as important contextual concepts to consider when treating couples. The chapter presents how to apply the AFT couple model to help couples change their thoughts, perceptions, feelings, emotions and reactions to each other, enabling a more positive and intimate relationship. Behavioral couple therapy and its evolution are synchronized with the three waves of behavior therapy. The first wave was indicative of the traditional stimulus-response learning theory. The basic tenant was that marital conflict resulted from the lack of reciprocal positive reinforcement as defined by the couple. Using contingency contracting, couples could receive tangible acknowledgement based on demonstrating behaviors asked for by their mates to improve their interactions and relationship satisfaction. A therapist could note whether the behaviors exhibited by couples were functional or dysfunctional.
