KEY CHAPTER POINTS PLATE ONE: ESTABLISHING A HOME
Enduring couples:
• Engage in behaviors that are grouped into five categories labeled “developmental plates”: (1) establishing a home; (2) producing socio-economic viability; (3) selecting values; (4) preparing for the loss of partner; (5) raising children.
• Balance each plate as it exists in close interaction with one or more of the other plates.
• Deal with the stresses created as developmental plates collide.
• Confront the developmental tasks (forming, storming, norming, performing) associated within each of the five developmental plates.
• Seek resolutions to separation from parents or blending two households as they establish a home (Plate #1).
• Evoke their founding stories to help them through stormy times dividing household duties, purchasing a house, recognizing their differences.
• Take solace in the fact that small daily rituals help to cement the relationship.
