ABSTRACT
The social support cornerstone is built upon the positive, synergizing effects that our other relationships can have on the couple relationship. Inasmuch as no one person or endeavor can satisfy all our needs, it is essential to have multiple interests, commitments, and obligations. In our culture, our primary relationships, beyond that of our mate, are with our jobs, our children, our extended family, our interests and hobbies, and our civic involvements. Although these roles can and should enhance a relationship, in today’s world they are very often the source of extraordinary stress. Whether it is parents who feel that they are not giving enough time to their children, adult children who are overwhelmed with responsibilities to aging parents, or workers who are burdened by impossible job demands, this cornerstone is often a source of multiple stressors for a couple.
