Harold L. Arnold

Unconditional commitment is the key to resisting marital stressors. This is accomplished by attending to each other’s needs, honest communication and timely encouragement.

Marriages only thrive as each spouse accepts responsibility for the impact of their own disappointments, fears and priorities on the relationship.

By following a three-step process, couples from differing ethnic backgrounds can overcome the marital stressors resulting from the conflicting cultural assumptions they bring to the marriage.

As inter-ethnic marriages continue to increase, this trend holds tremendous promise for marriages that can transform differences into assets rather than succumb to them as liabilities.

Couples lose their orientation towards God and each other when buffeted by cultural ideology, family history and personal choices that are contrary to God’s plan.

Inter-ethnic marriages are often plagued by communication lapses, typically because self-interests are prioritized over partnership. Effective communication requires grace-filled attitudes and behaviors.