The importance of developing a sense of “we-ness” and connection, despite today’s materialistic and individualistic society, is one of the qualities that promote couple relationship well-being, said Carmen Delicata (right) during the ninth annual conference of the Gozo Diocese Family Commission at Villa Fiorita, Marsalforn.

With the theme X’ikissirha l-familja? Kif naffrontaw l-isfidi ta’ llum (What breaks up a family? How to overcome today’s problems) the conference looked at present-day problems leading to potential family break-ups and delved into ways and means how to overcome such problems.

Ms Delicata, a family therapist and lecturer at the Institute for Family Therapy (Malta), said marriage was not a destination, it was a journey along which the partners need to gradually learn how to focus on the relationship rather than on their individual, personal needs. “The quality and quantity of time spent together are both critical as is the balance of couple time versus time spent on individual pursuits. Physical and psychological intimacy as well as accepting that conflict is inevitable and can even be healthy if the partners learn to ‘fight fair’, ‘pick their battles’ and resolve conflicts through good communication are also core aspects of healthy relationships,” Ms Delicata said. “Developing a sense of commitment is also crucial, as committed couples are not anxious of losing their relationship,” she added.

Gozo Bishop Mario Grech stressed that applying Christian values in everyday family life as well as maintaining a close, personal relationship with God can only further strengthen couple relationships.

For further details on ongoing marriage preparation courses, parenting skills talks, thematic seminars and other initiatives call the Family Commission on 2155 6513 or e-mail: kdfgozo@gmail.com. One can also contact the Pope John Paul II Family Institute, Fortunato Mizzi Street, Victoria, on 7973 4831 or 9987 7339.

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