Assess personal readiness and responsibilities for partnerships (e.g., marriage, family life).

Assessment should include

• the degree of relative independence from parents or guardians
• emotional and intellectual maturity
• economic independence
• desire to commit to and accept responsibilities associated with a long-term relationship with another person.

Process/Skill Questions:

Thinking

• What factors influence a decision as to whether and how to form one’s own family?
• What criteria should be used to weigh the importance of each of these factors?
• What is the relationship between educational and career goals and marriage and family life?
• What does it mean to be in a long-term relationship?
• How does a breakdown in a long-term or marital relationship affect family members?

Communication

• What questions should be asked to determine readiness and desire for marriage and family life?
• What is the role of communication in making decisions regarding family life?

Leadership

• What ethical standards will guide you in considering your readiness and desire for marriage and family life?
• What might be the consequences of unrealistic expectations regarding family?
• What leadership abilities are needed to make responsible decisions?

Management

• What are some favorable and unfavorable factors to consider in predicting marital happiness?
• What resources are available to help evaluate personal factors regarding desire and readiness for marriage and family life?
• What management skills can help with decision making?