From hooking up, to living together, to bearing children prior to clarity about having a future together, relationship and family development has changed. New paradigms have important implications for how we understand the romantic and sexual relationships of young adults. Ambiguity is a preferred condition of relationships for many, which makes it easier to finesse intentions and hide asymmetrical commitment. However, this new relationship paradigm can lead to a person losing life options before making a clear choice about what they want the most.

In this webinar, Scott Stanley, Ph.D. will explain the ways motivated ambiguity intersects with types of commitment (e.g., constraint and dedication) to impact mate selection and lasting love. Some themes include the role of commitment in securing attachment, asymmetrical commitment, and research on how common types of relationship transitions can impact long-term outcomes.

Objectives:
Webinar participants will be able to:

1. Understand how teen and early adulthood relationships impact future relationships, marriage, and family stability.
2. Explain to young adults how to protect future life options through relationship decisions.
3. Explain to young adults how ambiguity in dating and mating increases risks for asymmetrical commitment, and how to recognize its warning signs.

Presenter: Scott Stanley, Ph.D., PREP, Inc. and the University of Denver

Resources:

• January 2022 Slide Deck
• Resource List from Scott Stanley
• Comments, Questions, & Answers from Scott Stanley