# data[].attributes.body
I think one of the main points, teaching healthy skills has it's strengths and weaknesses. This approach serves as a form of early intervention, preventing the normalization of harmful behaviors that may lead to IPV. The focus on healthy skills can help in building a culture of respect within relationships and understanding boundaries. However, it's important to understand that teaching healthy skills cannot solve IPV immediately it requires ongoing advocacy,and other support systems. Incorporating relationship education into society ensures a continuous dialogue about healthy relationships, fostering a culture where seeking help is encouraged and stigmatization is minimized. Societal factors, such as victim-blaming and the stigma associated with leaving a partner, can contribute to a sense of isolation and discourage individuals from seeking help. I feel like this also attributes why learning healthy relationship skills would be necessary, but more needs to be done especially to help people who are already affected by IPV.

# data[].attributes.body
I think the #MeToo Movement has had a significant impact on romantic relationships. Conversations about boundaries have become more explicit, creating an environment where partners feel empowered to communicate their desires and set limits. #MeToo has also looked at an examination of power imbalances within relationships. It has challenged the notion that certain behaviors are acceptable due to existing power differentials. We could talk about how women have been more likely to come out about assault, for example, the women who came out against Harvey Weinstein.

# data[].attributes.body
One historical event that has specific ties to the country which I am from is the completion of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885. The completion of this interprovincial railway allowed for the  facilitation of movement of people across the country. This, in turn, greatly influenced not only settlement patterns and the demographics of various regions, but also the dynamics of romantic relationships at the time as communities were established, grown, and diversified. Upon the completion of the railway, individuals were able to migrate and settle in different regions much more conveniently, which likely fostered the creation of new communities and the mixing of diverse populations. Changes in settlement patterns such as the ones catalyzed by this railway’s establishment, for example, influenced the availability and diversity of potential romantic partners. Economic opportunities in these increasingly accessible regions could also have influenced peoples’ decisions regarding marriage and family formation as well, both of which exemplify the social dynamics of relationships in the country as a whole. In a similar manner, the railway's completion also facilitated social mobility, which in turn affected the partner search, as relocation between urban and rural areas became increasingly convenient. Perhaps most profoundly, though, the increased movement of people brought upon by the railway likely led to an unprecedented amount of cultural exchange and the sharing of traditions and practices. This likely resulted in more intercultural partnerships as well as a mixing and shifting of societal norms as multiple communities’ perceptions intermingled, including norms and conventions related to courtship, marriage, and romantic relationships.

# data[].attributes.body
I think one event that has profound impact on romantic relationship is the Obergefell v. Hodges. The supreme court struck down all state bans on same-sex marriage, and that definitely had a huge impact on romantic relationship. We've spent a lot of time talking about gender equality and the changes of romantic relationship, but this topic is definitely a huge step in our history. People, regardless of their self-identity have the rights to pursuit the happiness they desire. This is a huge step in our history, and I believe it is very difficult to achieve without the former efforts. Throughout the time, parents or family seniors have less influence on the decision-making of young couples, and earlier access to jobs give young couples more flexibilities when choosing their future path. Furthermore, people begin to value both side of a romantic relationship, and more protections are given to family, especially children. These are all vital efforts that make the society believes that more freedom and more openness are okay and beneficial to happiness

# data[].attributes.body
A historical event we haven’t talked about that has had a significant impact on our views of romantic relationships was when the Supreme Court struck down all bans on same-sex marriage, formally recognizing same-sex couples. This event proved to be significant, as it gave members of the LGBTQ+ identity a hand that had not previously been lent. Additionally, it arguably changed how homosexuality was seen in the public eye, as perhaps before the passing of this law, it had been seen as “taboo” or “unright” by some. However, after the passing of this law, homosexuality seemed to be more and more normalized; henceforth, today it is widely accepted by the public eye. The event was extremely impactful for more than just one reason as well, as with the legalization of same-sex marriage, people of the LGBTQ+ identity saw more representation in the media allowing them to once more connect with entertainment or culture that had previously been deemed too upright for public viewing. Yet, despite this major win for those of the LGBTQ+ community, it still must be noted that members of this community are not safe from attacks or hate crimes, as within even the past year, the FBI recognized 1051 victims of hate crimes due to their sexual orientation. As a result, this has led to a vast amount of outrage and protest. Therefore, because of its widespread impact on society, I believe that this event is equally as important as the ones we discussed in class.

# data[].attributes.body
I think one historical event that dramatically shifted peoples views on love and relationships was the 1980s-1990s AIDS crisis. Couples faced the task of discussing sexual health, safety measures, and the significance of mutual responsibility for one another's well-being. This wasn't just about emotional support but also about physical care and protection, which became integral components of expressing love and commitment. This crisis reshaped the concept of trust within relationships. The need for open communication and honesty about sexual history and health status became more and more important. This transparency cultivated stronger, more resilient bonds based on mutual respect and understanding. Relationships became more inclusive of discussions about sexual health, emphasizing shared responsibility and mutual care. In addition to this, there was a stigma surrounding AIDS that particularly discriminated against gay men. Partners were forced to confront the harsh realities of discrimination and societal judgment, leading to more profound displays of empathy and solidarity. This led to more activism and the continued the fight for gay rights.

# data[].attributes.body
A historical event we haven't touched on as much that has had a large impact on relationships is the strike of women in South Korea, who are deciding not to get married or have children. This comes after years of oppression of women in South Korea -- who have to work longer hours in the domestic sphere than their husbands, and are often encouraged to quit their jobs in lieu of child-rearing. While this strike is having an effect on how many children are being born in South Korea, I think that the strike is indicative of a larger sentiment shared by women around the world in the current era. All around the world, prices are increasing, and it is getting more and more expensive to have children and raise a family. Groceries are expensive, gas prices are high, and women are still economically disadvantaged in most places in the world. Women are faced with vast pay gaps as opposed to men, especially when that is compounded with the pay gaps they may face due to their race. I think that the strike South Korean women are currently on is indicative of a larger world-wide sentiment, that is acknowledging how many societies are not set up to accommodate and support women.

# data[].attributes.body
A historical event that definitely impacted relationships would be the great depression. The Great Depression began in August 1929, when the economic expansion of the Roaring Twenties came to an end. It was a series of financial crises that impacted many families and people nationwide. Research has shown that the great depression lowered marriage rates and made many people. This can be explained by the economic turmoil caused by the Depression that led to widespread unemployment and financial hardship for many people. Thus many individuals delayed marriage or chose not to marry due to the uncertainty of being able to provide for a family. This financial strain caused so much uncertainty for many people. Dates cost money 90% of the time so this caused a decrease in people's ability to go on dates and in turn the rates of people dating also went down. Societal norms were also affected and dating standards were impacted as well. In turn the age of people getting married also went up in time. People were getting married much later in life. Many people’s lifestyles changed as priorities went from choosing to get married to focusing on yourself and your own money. Overall the widespread economic  downfall and uncertainty of the Great Depression reshaped societal values and preferences, resulting in a decrease in marriage rates as individuals emphasized securing financial stability and surviving instead of conforming to old societal norms of starting families.

# data[].attributes.body
One historical event which had an impact on romantic relationships is the Cold War. The example of the Cold War is a bit different than others because it's issues were mainly confined to the time period of the cold war, and you may only observe remnants of it in today's society. The intense paranoia and suspicion during the Cold War era often extended to personal relationships. Individuals were sometimes wary of their partners, friends, or colleagues being spies, especially if they had connections to the opposing political ideology. The threat of nuclear war during the Cold War era had a psychological impact on individuals and families. The fear of a potential global conflict and the arms race influenced decisions regarding family planning, with some couples questioning the wisdom of bringing children into a world with such uncertainties. Military service and the fear of deployment impacted romantic relationships as partners faced the challenges of separation, uncertainty, and the potential of war.

# data[].attributes.body
World War II had many profound impacts that significantly affected the dynamic of romantic relationships:

Separation: A large number of couples were separated due to military service, creating problems and challenges in the maintenance of relationships. A critical means of communication proved to be letter, which influenced the depth and intimacy of connections.

Accelerated Courtship: The wartime urgency resulted in accelerated courtship and marriages. Couples were uncertain about what the future held and hence made quick decisions related to marriages and commitment.

Changing Gender Roles: With men away at war, women were involved in new and changing roles in the workforce and society. This significant shift in gender roles influenced perceptions of women's capabilities and independence, creating a major impact on the dynamic of post war.

Post-War Adjustments: After the war, returning veterans faced the challenge of readjusting to normal civilian life. Reintegration into family life and relationships often required significant adaptation. This adaptation and relearning civilian life has a profound effect on their romantic relationships.

Impact on Intimacy: The stress and trauma of war that the returning veterans faced influenced the emotional dynamics of relationships. Some couples found renewed appreciation for life and love, while the other unfortunate ones faced the challenges of post-traumatic stress and readjustment.

# data[].attributes.body
One very recent historical event that had significant impact on romantic relationships was the COVID-19 pandemic. Aside from the obvious difficulties and stressors that a threat to health would create, the pandemic created a new dating environment/style and placed strain on pre-existing relationships.

For starters, the pandemic caused couples to migrate to online communication. During this time, online dating platforms and services increased popularity - making it a more prevalent method. It was already prominent, but the pandemic fueled it as a social norm more strongly.

Secondly, COVID-19 created obstacles for individuals in relationships already. The difficulty of traveling to one another, if a couple was not already living together, created strain and may have damaged some of the physical and emotional aspects of closeness. In contrast, people who were placed in a particular location or housing situation may have increased closeness - calling back to the "COVID-19 love stories" when people were stranded at a vacation spot and bonded during the time they were permitted from traveling outside of their location. These travel restrictions created either a decrease in, or lack thereof, physical contact; which may be an important factor of intimacy between partners.

Overall, communication styles, skills and frequencies were affected greatly by the pandemic - and the dating habits of all generations may be influenced forever.

# data[].attributes.body
One event that affected relationships is the great recession of the 2000s. Money is one of the biggest sources of arguments between couples. When the recession happened, people lost their jobs and money became a big struggle for most families. As a result of this, relationships may have been tested. If the provided in the relationship lost their job, it will cause problems in the relationship. The stress of worrying about money can be taken out in relationship. The economy undoubtedly impacts a relationship. From the stress and emotional strain associated with money problems to the decisions couples must make about allocating resources. A lot of relationships were probably tested during this time. The stress of the recession may have put a wedge between couples and led to them breaking up. Couples had to learn to work together to get through this hard time. After this event, a lot of relationships changed. Maybe the woman in the relationship went to work after her husband lost his job. Maybe  the couple had to move because they couldnt afford where they were living. Maybe couples put off having children since until the economy goes back up and they have more money. Overall, the recession had a large impact on relationships and still does to this day.

# data[].attributes.body
An event that has had a huge impact on relationships is the feminist movement that began in the mid 1800’s and in my opinion, made the largest impact on relationships beginning in the second wave of feminism during the 1970’s. As women have gained independence and their value in society, a move towards equal relationships in which both partners share tasks, roles, and decision-making has emerged. “Traditional” relationships in  a heterosexual context involved the male counterpart being the dominant breadwinner and the woman being a submissive caretaker. The feminist movement’s strides towards equal pay, reproductive freedom, and equal rights were most prominent in the 1970’s and women began changing their perspectives on their role within heterosexual relationships. Roe v. Wade was decided in 1973 and was a huge win for women in this time, further pushing them to continue fighting  towards equality. Since women were seeking equal treatment from the country, their employers, and the government, they were also seeking equal treatment within their own homes and relationships. While there are still many “traditional” relationships standing today, especially outside of the US, many relationships have become more egalitarian and less dependent on male dominant energy.

# data[].attributes.body
A historical event we haven’t talked much about that has had a profound impact on romantic relationships is the legalization of same-sex marriage in 2015. In the Obergefell v. Hodges Supreme Court case, the court ruled that the due process clause of the Fourteenth Amendment guarantees same-sex couples the right to marry. This allowed LGBTQ+ couples to have legal recognition nationwide, granting them the marriage benefits of heterosexual couples. This case was a landmark event and a turning point for LGBTQ+ couples in culture and society. In the years since Obergefell v. Hodges, there has been a greater sense of inclusivity and acceptance when it comes to non-heterosexual identities and sexual orientations. The case was a step towards equality and against discrimination. Because of the legalization of same-sex marriage, it became more socially acceptable to be homosexual and therefore has made it easier for some members of the LGBTQ+ community to find romantic partners. There has also been an increase in the number of LGBTQ+ couples represented in the media. However, Obergefell v. Hodges did not solve the deep-rooted issue of homophobia in the United States. An example of the issue still being prevalent is the Pulse nightclub shooting in 2016, which was the deadliest act of violence against the LGBTQ+ community and caused immense fear, anger, and grief. To this day, LGBTQ+ couples face threatening legislation and rhetoric that has a profound effect on their relationships.

# data[].attributes.body
Although not specifically defined, I believe the era when media became popular to the public had a profound impact on how people view love, both inside and outside of the United States - the era where people started having access to televisions, radios, and news, which is still developing day-to-day. People can easily recall the famous scenes in movies, such as when Jack Dawson holding Rose Bukater on the edge of the cruise in Titanic, or when Seb and Mia dance gracefully in La La Land. The power that media holds is big, and the images of love it portrays have a great influence on how people think love “should” be, especially for those like young adults who have little experience. Media often conceal other “negative” aspects of romantic relationships where the partners argue, put in effort, or compromise, possibly giving them false fantasies about how their romantic relationships should turn out. Without public media, I think people would have been much more accepting of their unique relationships without having much bias or expectations. Starting from classic movies, it has become worldwide including K-drama, anime, wattpad, etc. It is not necessarily a bad thing, but the portrayal of love and romantic relationships through media shaped how people view and expect them to be nowadays.

# data[].attributes.body
A historical event that has had a profound impact on romantic relationships is The Great Recession of 2008. According to the National Library of Medicine increased IPV as they found a positive correlation between unemployment/economic hardship and abusive behavior. Increases in unemployment increased men’s controlling behavior towards their romantic partners. Overall, studies show that recessions strain couples relationships as men become more prone to becoming less affectionate and more hostile to their spouses. While women are more likely to become more demanding and less supportive.

# data[].attributes.body
I think that last year's overturning of Roe v Wade and the subsequent restrictive abortion laws that followed definitely had a profound impact on romantic relationship and how people approached love and intimacy, especially in states where restrictive abortion laws were introduced. Without that sense of protection over their own bodily autonomy, people, especially women, have since definitely been more hesitant and cautious in participating in hookup culture. With greater restrictions on abortion, this decision somewhat reverses us backwards in time, slowly gearing and leaning us in the direction of the traditional ideologies that the main purpose of sex is to reproduce in marriages. Established couples might also see less intimacy in their relationships in order to decrease the risk of an accidental pregnancy, which as a result could negatively effect relationship dynamics. In particular, couples in lower SES would feel these impacts harder, as they likely have a more difficult time accessing reliable forms of birth control. They also are less likely to be able to travel across state borders to access abortions in more progressive states if they really need to.

# data[].attributes.body
One historical event I wanted to highlight were the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Over 3,000 lives were lost and those lives were brothers, sisters, boyfriends, girlfriends, husbands, wives, etc. These tragic events affected romantic relationships in many complex ways. This could have potentially led to increased anxiety and emotional stress. Many individuals could have also potentially placed a greater importance on personal relationships in fear of losing their loved ones.

# data[].attributes.body
One historical event I wanted to highlight was the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Nearly 3,000 lives were lost and those lives lost were brothers, sisters, husbands, wives, boyfriends, girlfriends, etc. Relationships were incredibly affected by this in many complex ways. The events resulted in so much emotional stress potentially led to increased anxiety and emotional strain. They also could have led to individuals placing a greater importance on personal relationships in fear of losing their loved ones.

# data[].attributes.body
I believe that the HIV/AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 1990s had a  long-lasting impact on romantic relationships, reshaping societal attitudes, behaviors, and perceptions of love and intimacy. As the epidemic unfolded, it brought about significant changes in how individuals approached sexual health, communication, and the dynamics of relationships.

One of the most immediate effects of the HIV crisis was the heightened awareness of sexual health risks. The virus was initially associated with the gay community, leading to increased stigmatization and discrimination. This environment compelled people to prioritize conversations about sexual health and safety in their romantic relationships. Couples were forced to discuss and comprehend safe practices, emphasizing the importance of mutual responsibility and care.

As society dealt with this epidemic, it prompted a discussion of relationship dynamics, resulting in a more informed, empathetic, and resilient approach to love and intimacy.

# data[].attributes.body
One event which I believe had a profound impact on romantic relationships, was the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center on 9/11/2001. I believe this to be the case as the event cause extreme trauma, not only for those directly involved, but for everyone watching the events unfold in the news all around the world. In one article I read, it exclaimed that divorce rates decreased in the New York in the year following the attack. In my opinion this may be because, following such an upsetting event, people felt more inclined to cherish their loved ones and perhaps reconsider decisions about ending serious relationships with their partners. This could be due to the fact that, after seeing the impact of loss for other people, they wish to try harder to make their relationships work. Furthermore I think that in times of heightened stress and anxiety, people may seek comfort in their partner leading to increased proximity and therefore intimacy between romantic partners. This may be another reason why divorce rates may have fell following events.

# data[].attributes.body
Hannah and Thomas

Wed

Weird Fishes/Arpegie - Radiohead

# data[].attributes.headline
Throughout the semester, and finishing with the COVID-19 pandemic on Monday 11/20, we've talked about how historical events have impacted our views of love and what we do in romantic relationships. Discuss a historical event that we HAVEN'T talked about, that you think has had a profound impact on romantic relationships. Feel free to discuss historical events in or outside of the United States, during any point in the last 200 years. 

# data[].attributes.subject
Throughout the semester, and finishing with the COVID-19 pandemic on Monday 11/20, we've talked about how historical events have impacted our views of love and what we do in romantic relationships. Discuss a historical event that we HAVEN'T talked about, that you think has had a profound impact on romantic relationships. Feel free to discuss historical events in or outside of the United States, during any point in the last 200 years. 

# data[].attributes.body
1. Thomas, Hannah

2. Wednesday

3. "Weird Fishes/Arpeggi" by Radiohead

# data[].attributes.body
The video defines intimate partner violence (IPV) as any type of physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, or psychological aggression by current or former spouses, boyfriends, girlfriends, dating partners, or sexual partners. As the video went through 6 potential strategies in order to prevent IPV, I recognized a multitude of strengths and weaknesses within each one.

I thought that teaching safe and healthy relationship skills was a strong strategy to prevent IPV as it helps people to better understand how to act in a relationship and how to treat the person you are having emotional or intimate relations with. However, teaching these types of skills can also be disregarded and ignored, causing people to continue with negative behaviors in relationships. Furthermore, I feel that supporting survivors to increase safety and lessen harms is a helpful strategy for helping those who have experienced IPV, however, it does not help to prevent IPV. This is not a preventative strategy because it does not take into account the person who inflicts the IPV on the other person. Similarly, creating a protective environment allows people to feel comfortable, but cannot prevent what happens behind closed doors. Therefore, this strategy lacks the preventative aspect that is necessary to prevent IPV. Working to prevent violence starting in early childhood is a strong strategy as it has been psychologically proven that what you learn when you are younger is often carried through into adulthood, thus this strategy could act as a preventative measure for IPV. Additionally, strengthening economic support for families could help to decrease the continuation of IPV as it allows the affected partner to leave the negative environment. Lastly, the video mentioned engaging influential peers and adults. This method would be helpful in spreading the message and educating people about IPV.

# data[].attributes.body
While the six practices and policies (the approach of teaching safe and intimate relationship skills, supporting survivors, disrupting developmental pathways toward partner violence, creating protective environments, and strengthening economic supports for families) are important to think about when it comes to the issues of intimate partner violence (IPV), I wouldn't say these practices completely prevent IPV. Empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills to engage in healthy relationships can foster respectful communication and conflict resolution, while supporting survivors through counseling and community resources is crucial for breaking the cycle of violence. Disrupting developmental pathways early in life and creating protective environments contribute to preventing the development of behaviors that may lead to partner violence. Additionally, strengthening economic support for families addresses the role of financial stability in reducing stressors that contribute to domestic violence. However, simply “supporting survivors” and “creating a safe space” don’t do anything to prevent the events from happening in the first place. Offering  individual receptiveness to education, limited availability and accessibility of support services, the complexity of identifying and addressing developmental pathways, challenges in fostering widespread cultural and societal change, and the need for a holistic understanding that economic factors are just one aspect of a complex issue. Successful implementation requires a multi-faceted, culturally sensitive, and collaborative effort, with ongoing evaluation and adaptation of strategies to ensure their relevance and effectiveness. I feel like saying IPV is preventable by following these vague practices was misleading.

# data[].attributes.body
I think the CDC’s approach covers a wide area of things needed to prevent IPV. I believe the most important thing to do is to support survivors and educate people on recognizing what IPV is in the first place. By understanding what IPV can look like, people can recognize warning signs before things escalate further or get more dangerous. This, in my opinion, is the most straightforward way to prevent IPV, as many people may not even realize they’re experiencing IPV until it is too late. I think one thing the CDC should take into more consideration is factors like economic hardships and create a more solidified plan for people who may not have the resources to protect themselves. For example, one of the approaches the CDC recommends is to create a protective environment. This may be impossible for some people, especially those at a low SES since they can’t physically remove themselves from a situation. Some people may also just not have supportive family or friends to help them remove themselves from a potentially dangerous situation. To add, safe and healthy relationship skills are teachable, but I am not quite sure how they could prevent IPV – I feel as though most perpetrators of IPV would not stop by simply learning about skills, but by receiving thorough psychological help. In some cases, it may aid in easing IPV but I think it’s too ambitious to say that teaching these skills would prevent IPV altogether.

# data[].attributes.body
Strengths:

1. Public Awareness:  In order to prevent IPV if the CDC is advocating for policies and practices it is probable that it includes raising public awareness. In order to create a culture of intolerance and promote healthy relationships ; it is essential to increase the  awareness .

2. Research-Based Interventions: In order to have  more effective strategies and policies;  CDC’s approach   should be iresearch-driven instead of evidence based interventions .

3 Collaboration: In order to prevent IPV; multi-sector collaboration is essential. The initiatives of CDC could be enhanced by developing partnerships with various stakeholders.

Potential Weaknesses:

1. Implementation Challenges: Implementing can be a challenge even with well-designed policies. However the impact is fairly limited if the proposed strategies proposed are not effectively put into practice.

2. Cultural Sensitivity: The cultural factors need to be considered while addressing IPV. The approach is likely to face resistance or be less effective in certain communities if the CDC's approach does not adequately take into account the  cultural diversity,

3. Resource Allocation: In order for the programs to be successful ; it is essential to have sufficient funding and resources . The IPV prevention initiatives cannot succeed if the resources are limited.

Additional Considerations:

1. Continued Research: The strategies for IPV prevention must be updated regularly based on new research findings in order for the program to be effective.

2. Education Programs:  IPV can be prevented by fostering healthy relationship norms through detailed education programs, starting from early childhood.

3.Support Services: The survivors of IPV must be provided with  accessible and effective support services such as shelters, counseling, legal assistance, and other resources.

4. Policy Advocacy:  Systemic issues such as economic inequality and gender-based discrimination should be addressed through advocating suitable policies .

# data[].attributes.body
1. Katie, Fin, Parker, Miles

2. Wed 11/29

3. The Kissing Booth

# data[].attributes.body
1. Tyler and Fadi

2. Wed

3. Scream the movie

# data[].attributes.body
1. Thompson & Yasmeena

2. We prefer to go on Wednesday

3. We will be presenting Cinderella

# data[].attributes.body
1. Zoe Hammer and Julia Kirsh

2. Wednesday preferably

3. Greece

# data[].attributes.body
1. Kasandra Santiago, Sage Shimabukuro, Sophia Cachay

2. Wednesday 11/29

3. Love Story by Taylor Swift

# data[].attributes.body
1. Micheal, Caroline, Rosie, Jada

2. Wednesday

3. 10 things I hate about you

# data[].attributes.body
1. Micheal, Caroline, Rosie

2. Wednesday

3. 10 things I hate about you

# data[].attributes.body
At first glance, these six practices seem to work cohesively to prevent IPV. From a practice “working to prevent violence in early childhood” to one for “supporting survivors to increase safety and lessen harms,” it seems as though the practices cover IPV wholistically, from upbringing to even after the incidents themselves. However, the practices include many gaps, including the failure to address groups that are disproportionately affected. Granted, IPV affects everyone, but it especially affects some groups harder and more frequently than others, which should be communicated. For instance, women and indigenous groups face IPV at a different level than the general population, and it should also be noted the association between lower SES and higher IPV perpetuation. Although the preventative practices may apply to all of them, it ultimately provides no more support for them, when these are the groups that should be the forefront focus. Additionally, as many others in this padlet have mentioned, the lack of specificity makes these practices hard to gauge and evaluate. That is, the methods and consequences for “strengthening economic support support” may be vastly different from group to group. So in theory, the practices do a fair job of encompassing IPV, but the over-generalization provides no greater help for the groups that are disproportionately impacted.

# data[].attributes.body
After learning more about intimate partner violence, I think one of the strengths of the CDC’s current approach is the teaching of safe and healthy relationship skills. If children and adults continue to grow in an environment where they are shielded from the realities of a healthy relationship, they may struggle to decipher the signs of IPV. Therefore, education on identifying positive and negative engagements within a relationship could help individuals see signs of violence. Additionally, I think strengthening economic support for families in low-income communities could help reduce IPV. As we’ve discussed in class, the family stress model can lead to a lot of unconscious resentment and tension in a relationship that may be displaced into external violence. I agree that the CDC should engage influential adults and peers to fight IPV; however, one weakness of this approach is that depending on who they engage with, it could make the matter become politicalized instead of remaining an issue strictly on human rights. Moreover, I agree that the CDC’s preventative measures may decrease IPV, but I wonder if they could increase a focus on psychiatric counseling and support groups so those in these relationships can get professional help to move away from them.

# data[].attributes.body
While the CDC's 6 practices to prevent IPV are logical, some of their strategies are incredibly generalized and may not be effective for extreme cases of IPV. For example, the CDC's strategy of "engaging influential adults/peers" can be ineffective when IPV includes isolating a partner away from loved ones and family. This makes it a lot more difficult to try to get support from influential adults/peers and therefore out of a violent domestic situation. Instead of putting the burden of action and reaching out on someone already in an IPV situation, local cities/counties can create local protective environments & shelters where victims can either seek refuge or witnesses can call in incidents of IPV. However, on the opposite end, the CDC's strategy of "disrupt developmental pathways" is one that can really make a change if it is truly implemented. This is because many anger and violence issues during adulthood typically comes from being raised in violent households from a young age. Instead, children should be raised with strong communication skills and in calm environments, and develop skills that will allow them to quickly deescalate possibly tense situations. As a result, they will be significantly less likely to become violent partners (or intimate terrorists) in their adult relationships.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Nicole Leihe & Melody Wu

2. Wed 11/29

3. Everything Everywhere All At Once

# data[].attributes.body
1. Victoria Ortiz

2. Wednesday (I fly in to LAX at 1pm on Monday)

3. Elvis and Me (book) + Priscilla (movie)

# data[].attributes.body
In my opinion, the current approach of the CDC to IPV has a lot of flaws. One of the 6 points they outline is to support survivors, to increase safety and lessen harms. I wonder how this support would take place, especially when many survivors do not feel safe or comfortable reporting to legal authorities (i.e. the police), especially when these reports are oftentimes not taken seriously. Their point about strengthening economic support for sounds good on the surface, but I also wonder about this -- would that be a government initiative as well? What would be the criterion for receiving this financial support? Already, there are so many low-income families who do not qualify for benefits because "they make too much", or they "work too many jobs", and so I wonder, if this would be a government initiative, how they would make it possible that every family that needs financial support would be able to access those funds. To me, a lot of these feel very idealistic, like they are goals that we absolutely should work towards, but they have no tether to the reality of what it would take to make these policies feasible. Especially for the points about teaching safe and healthy relationships and creating protective environments, I am having a hard time seeing practical ways to implement these on a structural level as opposed to an interpersonal level. I would be interested to see the CDC outline tangible steps to take to implement these goals.

# data[].attributes.body
This video created by the CDC is incredibly shallow and fails to take into account the actual experiences of IPV victims. I hate the word “preventable” in the context that it is used.  I was really upset when I watched this video and “is preventable” was included in the definition of IPV. Our government does very little to protect IPV and DV victims. Our schools do the bare minimum to teach students about safe and healthy relationship skills. While these “preventive” steps sound effective, are they really effective when the government does little to nothing to fund or work towards implementing these preventive steps? These solutions just aren’t viable and it is hypocritical for the CDC, a federal agency, to label IPV as preventable.

“Mitigating the effects of” would be much better wording when referring to IPV. In my opinion, to mitigate the effects of IPV, the government must fund the organizations that work directly with victims of IPV to help them escape their abusive relationships and provide the most effective care for the individual's situation and background. That should be a “preventive” step but I don’t foresee it being one.

# data[].attributes.body
I think there is a lot of validity to these prevention points. However, I think it is perhaps lacking in terms of recognition that sometimes it is these places that are supposed to be “safe” that endanger us most. Teaching prevention skills in schools is also important, but again it doesn't properly address the fact that the majority of people that abuse their partners know that their actions are wrong. I think training could focus more on warning signs as well as other strategies than relationship tips. And then I think there should be more emphasis on what to do when you are in this situation. For example, where should you go to talk about your concerns? And what do protection sites really entail? What good is it to have places that are against relationship violence but cannot enact real support for victims, including a place to stay, and physical protection from the abusive partner? I think providing things like free therapy would also be essential to addressing the issue of domestic violence as well. Many victims are in way too deep (mentally and emotionally) to be able to ask for help, much less leave their partner. It takes so much to even get to that point and many people never do. I think free therapy could help give people the place to process their trauma and make real progress rather than getting stuck in these same dangerous cycles.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Joan Song, Bridget Wang

2. Wed (11/29)

3. Little Women

# data[].attributes.body
1. Dor Peretz

2. Would prefer to present on Wednesday

3. I will be presenting on Mean Girls

# data[].attributes.body
The strength of these 6 practices is that they are targeting various different aspects of the issue, thereby preventing IPV holistically. For example, strengthening economic support for families deals with an economic form of prevention, whereas teaching safe and healthy relationship skills is an educational form of prevention. Addressing the issue of IPV prevention through various avenues is a strength because it reinforces prevention on multiple grounds and through that, the risk of IPV decreases. However, I think there are still weaknesses in these practices, specifically in how their broadness allows them to be misexecuted, or executed ineffectively. For instance with regards to teaching safe and healthy relationship skills, there may be debates about what is safe and healthy, or certain state education systems may only allow certain things to be taught in their education programs. In that case, healthy relationship skills may not really be taught in a sex ed/relationship classes. The goal of creating protective environments can also be interpreted differently, and could therefore be executed in a way that isn’t conducive towards preventing violence in relationships. For example, some areas view safety and protection as higher policing, whereas other areas view protection as not just reliant on heavier policing. Differing political views leading to different interpretations of the 6 goals/practices therefore lessens their effectiveness. Perhaps a fix for this would be more specification in the goals, to provide different areas with more clear and consistent plans to execute for the sake of preventing IPV.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Chloe Christner, Maya Lewis, Georgia Klass

2. Preferably Wednesday

3. We will be analyzing The Notebook

# data[].attributes.body
The CDC does a good job at providing valuable resources, research, and guidelines to raise awareness, prevent IPV, and support survivors.  Creating a protective space for IPV victims is crucial,  but their recommendation to "create a safe space" could be one of the flaws. For IPV victims, creating a safe haven is essential, but sometimes it's not a possibility because of circumstances beyond their control. Social pressures, anxiety, and economic reliance may make it more difficult for them to create a safe atmosphere. Creating all-encompassing solutions to serve IPV survivors requires an understanding of these issues.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Orr Bar-Yossef, Leilani Mate, Suede Sanders

2. We prefer Wednesday

3. To All the Boys I've Loved Before

# data[].attributes.body
1. Mei Higashi and Falcon Fu

2. Prefer Wednesday slot!

3. We will be analyzing Twilight movie

# data[].attributes.body
Although I do believe that there are policies and preventive practices that can be taken to decrease IPV, overall I disagree with the CDC that this is something that is something that is one hundred percent preventable. Some weaknesses is that a lot of IPV probably does go unreported making it so a lot of the post operative actions are not 100% effective. Even so, making it difficult to know if it's too late to implement preventative measures. Moreover, it is one thing to enact these preventative measures but it’s another for them to actually work. People can have all the right skills to escape and avoid IPV but if they refuse to be receptive then there’s only so much that providing them the skills can do for them. Additionally, to implement these six policies/practices it takes time and most importantly resources. For policies/practices such as strengthening economic support for families can be really unrealistic for families in lower SES. Creating protective environments is also something that could be very costly. Some strengths include that a lot of people who find themselves experiencing IPV are at a loss whether it be because they're unsure of what to do or just shock. But if they're able to learn about IPV before and build skills and support systems it could make it much easier for people who find themselves in these situations to escape.

# data[].attributes.body
Just as a refresher, the six strategies noted by the CDC include: teaching safe and healthy relationship skills, engaging influential adults and peers, disrupting developmental pathways toward partner violence, creating protective environments, strengthening economic supports for families, and supporting survivors to increase safety and lessen harms. The strengths in this approach lie in its preventative measures and ways to support those who have faced IPV. The best way to combat this issue is teaching people the healthy skills needed in a relationship to manage conflicts or talk to other people who can support you and aid in recovery. What also needs to be taken into account would be ways of reaching those who don't realize fully that they are in a violent (or soon-to-be) relationship and helping them out.

# data[].attributes.body
I think that it's such a difficult question to answer, because, as you often say in lectures... "it depends!"

In one regard, it seems best that couples remain on relatively good terms during and after a divorce, especially if the couple has a kid or multiple kids to look after together (even if not given joint custody). It is seemingly beneficial for a kid to not randomly and suddenly have a major figure in their life disappear or have their two parents instantaneously stop communicating with one another. To properly co-parent a child, communication is needed on a healthy basis, and both parents deserve some say on how the other parent parents a kid they are the father or mother of.

That being said, sometimes it's not that easy! In certain cases of abuse especially, it might be less emotionally damaging to have the abuser disappear from the family's life than to try to keep them involved. The same could be said about an addict or neglectful parent.

Similarly, I believe the amount of communication a kid should receive about their parents' divorce depends on age, maturity, and how much they knew about the conflict between their parents before the divorce. I usually side with the side of clear and thorough communication, but depending on the kid, communication could damage their lives MORE. It is interesting to see that divorces are more likely in relationships where one of the partners is a child of a divorced parent.

# data[].attributes.body
The six different practices that our nation can do as a whole to prevent IPV does a decent job as a generally encompassing different ways that IPV can be prevented, but, realistically, they do not really consider circumstances. For example, creating protective environments can lead to even more harm for IPV victims. Although creating these protective environments are great, it's hard to know what exactly these protective environments entail. Are these environments places where people go to talk about their IPV encounters and then still go back home to their violent partners? Are these places for people to sleep and escape their partners? Are they places for people to talk about their IPV experiences after they have already safely left their relationship? I think it is hard to really dig deeply into the weaknesses because these “protective environments” are so broad. If these environments are to “prevent”, that means that they should exist before someone encounters violence with their partner, but partners are unaware and ignorant that their partner may become violent, likely because they are in the “love bombing” phase of their relationship. Why would someone want to go to one of these environments before they have encountered any violence? In addition, if these protective environments are for people who are currently in violent relationships, it is really challenging for them to safely escape the relationship for a short period of time. The issue with these violent relationships is that the violent partner begins to become controlling, such as requesting their partner's location, and does not want them seeing certain people. To find an “excuse” to escape and go to a protective environment is a really challenging thing to do without initiating even more violence. The most ideal situation for a protective environment would be if someone was permanently leaving a violent relationship with no plans on going back or seeking help or professional assistance after already leaving. If someone is planning on going back to their partner and their partner finds out they were at one of these protective environments or even “a friends house” (an excuse) it may anger them even more and therefore lead to more violence.

# data[].attributes.body
To lessen the emotional impact of a divorce, I think the best course of action is to be open and honest in communication between the couple and family members, especially children. Part of the emotional stress caused by divorce is the uncertainty, which harbors negative feelings for both parties. By engaging in conversation and keeping open communication when possible, the couple is able to have a clear understanding of each other’s intentions and feelings. It is also important for parents to communicate with their children. Of course, young children might be unable to understand the legal intricacies of divorce, but it is still important for them to be honest about the situation so that it doesn’t lead to the kids having false hopes that will harm them emotionally. Another important method of lessening the emotional impact of divorce is practicing self-care and taking care of your mental health. Divorce can make all parties involved feel extremely stressed, anxious, or depressed. Positive coping strategies like meditating, journaling, exercising, etc. can help alleviate these feelings. Couples can also seek support from others to lessen the emotional impact. They can talk to trusted loved ones or other family and friends who can support their mental well-being. Another option is talking to a therapist who can give an additional perspective and help them maintain their mental health. At the end of the day, every divorce is different and certain strategies may work better for different couples.

# data[].attributes.headline
1. Who is in your group? 2. When would you like to present (Mon. 11/27 or Wed. 11/29)? 3. What piece of media will you be presenting on? 

# data[].attributes.subject
1. Who is in your group? 2. When would you like to present (Mon. 11/27 or Wed. 11/29)? 3. What piece of media will you be presenting on? 

# data[].attributes.headline
On Monday, we watched this video from the CDC talking about what IPV is, and 6 policies/practices we can do as a nation to prevent it. What are the strengths and potential weaknesses of their current approach? What else needs to be taken into account? 

# data[].attributes.subject
On Monday, we watched this video from the CDC talking about what IPV is, and 6 policies/practices we can do as a nation to prevent it. What are the strengths and potential weaknesses of their current approach? What else needs to be taken into account? 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

# data[].attributes.body
Divorce can be a very emotionally-taxing experience on both a couple and their families. However, some strategies can help manage the stress that divorce creates. Open communication within the divorcing couple as well as between the couple and the rest of their family is important. Taking the time to listen to one another and understand the other person’s perspective and emotions can help both people involved in the divorce to maintain a healthy relationship and make the divorce as smooth as possible. If the couple has children, it’s important for them to honestly communicate with their children about their divorce and let the children be involved in decisions that impact them. One of the main issues that often comes with divorce is managing co-parenting. Creating a stable co-parenting plan from the beginning will benefit both the parents and the children. Both parents should be consistent with their co-parenting schedule in order to provide as much stability for their children as possible. Respecting their children’s opinions in creating a co-parenting plan is also important as their children should feel heard and supported. Lastly, both parties involved should turn to their support systems for emotional, physical, and mental support. This could be their family, friends, or even professionals who can listen to them and help them through this hardship.

# data[].attributes.body
One thing that couples could do to lessen that emotional impact of a divorce on themselves and their families is to go to therapy. Family therapy and couples therapy could be beneficial. The divorced couples could learn how to coexist or co-parent if they experienced problems. They should address the problems before making the divorce official. If they are fighting all the time, then they should get to the root of why that is. They should handle it in a mature way. They should listen to each other and try to understand where the other person is coming from.  If children are involved, the parents could explain why they no longer want to be married, and that it is not their fault. They should let the children know what the situation is without making everything very sudden. Everything should be a gradual transition, so that everyone has time to get used to it. Both parties should set boundaries, what each person is okay with going forward.

# data[].attributes.body
I think to lessen the emotional impact of a divorce on themselves and their families, couples can try to work on their communication tactics, and if that proves unsuccessful, have a third-party mediator. I think that when people get caught up in their emotions, especially when going through the divorce process, they say things that may regret later, and they may harbor a lot of anger toward their partner. If the couple has children, then this may have a negative effect on them, and a lot of arguing also does not contribute to a productive environment either. Communication is, I think, the best way to lessen the emotional impact of a divorce -- if both parties can try to be clear about what their needs are, and if they are unable to communicate, use a third-party to aid them in that process.

# data[].attributes.body
I think the most important thing is to be as mature as possible. In the scenario of divorce, there is often a lot of sadness, anger, guilt, or resentment involved that can cause people to act immaturely and not take others feelings into consideration, including their partner’s feelings or their family’s feelings. People will make impulsive decisions, fight in front of their children, or talk badly about the other person to their own kids. Not only does this immaturity affect the outcome and intensity of the separation, but it also may traumatize the children involved. Both partners handling the divorce process with maturity allows for smart and controlled decision-making, while taking into consideration how to protect your children.

From what I have seen with friends and some of my family members, if someone experiences their parents’ messy divorce throughout their childhood, they are likely to mirror this relationship when they are older. They will see toxicity and immaturity in a relationship as normal and will have a hard time committing to a healthy relationship. This does not mean that staying in a relationship that no longer serves you will help your children in the future, it just means that you have to be as mature and empathetic as possible when processing a divorce. It is so important to take care of oneself and also be the parents that your children need in such a difficult time.

# data[].attributes.body
Getting through a divorce is certainly a tough and emotional process, and careful consideration and measures are required to reduce the impact on oneself and family members.

Open communication: Maintaining open and true communication with your spouse is required throughout the process. Discussing one’s feelings, expectations, concerns to ensure a mutual understanding.

Professional support: Seeking the support and assistance of a trained therapist to help understand emotions and challenges of divorce.

Cooperative Co-Parenting:

Fostering a cooperative co-parenting relationship and focusing on the well-being of the children. This can be effective by creating a parenting plan that highlights the responsibilities of both the parents so as to ensure involvement of both the parents.

Respect and empathy:

Respect is key. By maintaining respect for one another the tension that comes along with divorce can be eased. Additionally, even empathy can be practiced by understanding the other person’s perspective.

Focus on self-care:

Practicing self-care during and after the divorce. This includes exercising, nutrition and sleep.

Maintaining social network:

Relying on friends and family for emotional support.

# data[].attributes.body
I think that divorce is difficult no matter what, but consistent and productive communication is key to minimizing damage. I thought it was very interesting that they were saying that the kids that have the most difficult time are actually the ones that’s parents didn’t fight in front of them and they therefore felt blind sighted by the divorce. Finding a balance between oversharing with your children or placing your own grievances and issues on them vs. just brushing things under the rug is hard, but key. It’s really easy to choose one side or the other - making your kid a therapist or just telling them nothing - but I think these are both harmful. Similarly, avoiding villainizing  your ex spouse to your children is really important, especially if they will continue to be a part of the kid’s life. Kids are already losing a lot through divorce, and destroying the perception they have of their other parent, in relation to your own issues, is yet another blow. (Obviously, if they have their own issues, that’s different). But ruining your kid’s relationship with them as some kind of revenge or power tactic is ultimately just harmful to your child. People need as much support and love as possible during this time. Therefore, clarity and openness as well as maturity and grace is the foundation to healthy healing after divorce.

# data[].attributes.body
I think it’s extremely important to introduce this issue in little bite-size pieces, especially for children who generally get hit the hardest by divorce. It can be extremely traumatic hearing your parents fight as a child and then later have to choose which one to live with inside of a courtroom. Therefore, despite a couple's differences when going through a divorce, I feel that it’s so important to little by little introduce the topic to their children instead of hitting them with it like a freight train, as this will only lead to significant emotional damage. Additionally, perhaps it may be a good idea to just have as many conversations as possible regarding a possible divorce because it could genuinely help the situation no matter how difficult these conversations may be. At the end of the day, “communication is key” isn’t just a saying, it’s extremely good advice and in my personal experience has saved relationships I’ve been in countless times just having a completely honest and straightforward conversation. While this may be futile, I feel that a lot of the time, couples who divorce tend to constantly fight and be stubborn in their own way without hearing the other side out to a full extent. So for that, open communication is imperative.

# data[].attributes.body
The best thing couples can do is communicate. While each divorce is different, communication helps in just about every scenario and, if done right, should never cause more harm. The reasons for a divorce could be complicated, which is why establishing a common consensus between the parties involved is so important! This results in a less "messy" divorce and would leave families out of potential drama or lasting effects. Children especially are vulnerable to the negative effects of divorce, so it's up to the parents to clearly explain it to them and ensure that the transition isn't too shocking or all of a sudden.

# data[].attributes.body
Divorce is an inherently emotional process, often extending its impact beyond the couple to affect people outside the relationship. To mitigate the emotional toll, open and honest communication is key. Regardless of the relationship's nature, transparency is essential. Regular discussions about concerns and expectations can help prevent misunderstandings. Seeking professional help should not be stigmatized or overlooked. It's perfectly acceptable for couples to consider therapy, including group therapy. Therapists can equip individuals with a variety of tools to navigate the complex emotions associated with divorce. Group therapy, in particular, can enhance communication between both parties, fostering a more cooperative atmosphere during this challenging time. It's vital to acknowledge the uniqueness of each and every divorce. People get divorced for all kinds of different reasons, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. One important thing is having a strong support group. Family and friends provide a vital lifeline, offering a sympathetic ear and emotional support to help individuals navigate their distinctive path to recovery. By approaching divorce with empathy and a commitment to personal well-being, individuals and their families can better navigate the challenges and emerge from the experience with greater emotional resilience. This comprehensive approach can help mitigate the emotional impact of divorce, promoting healing and growth.

# data[].attributes.body
I think couples going through a divorce should definitely prioritize young children first in their divorce. Because children's minds and perceptions of love and the world are still developing, a poor portrayal of their parent's marriage and subsequent divorce could result in children carrying a negative view of love and relationships for the rest of their life, which may take a lot to dismantle. Before finalizing and going through with a divorce, couples should ensure that there is a strong set of support systems in place for their children, such as therapy, relatives, and more. If possible, cohabitation would also be a much healthier option for families, as the constant absence of one parent and/or continuously switching residences every week at a young age can be a source of confusion and frustration for young children. Additionally, I think it'd be important for couples to keep their issues private amongst themselves. While there should be clear, mutual communication to their families about the divorce and the reasons behind it, it can be incredibly unhealthy if members of their family were forced to "choose sides" in their relationship or used as ways to validate different sides of an argument in the divorce. Essentially in young children who don't know any better, these kind of divisions can ruin relationships with one or more of their parents and result in a number of trauma and mental issues in the future.

# data[].attributes.body
I think the most effective way for couples to lessen the emotional impact of a divorce is communication skills. This could include a wide range of things such as therapy, talk between family members and so on. For the first one, therapy is definitely a useful mean for one to get back to a normal mental state and find ways to deal with ongoing challenges. It is also a chance for couples experiencing this phase to talk to a professional about things that might be difficult to others. For the second one, I think it will be very useful after one side of the relationship went to therapy sessions and then talk to their family members. For example, one parent can talk to his or her child/ children about the ongoing situation and be prepared to lessen the impact of this divorce to his or her child/children. Another things couple should do is decrease their arguments. Sometimes it is easy for couples at the end of their relationship to have a lot of opinions on each other. They could argue a lot and build quite negative image of themselves on the other side and their families. The better way is to control themselves and treat everyone including the other side of the relationship well.

# data[].attributes.body
Divorce, in my opinion, is a difficult and emotionally charged process that may have a significant impact not just on their partner but also on their families and especially children. Maintaining open and honest communication is very important. Couples should create a secure environment for coommunication so that they can share their concerns, thoughts, and worries without fear of being judged. Clear communication helps in understanding each other's points of view and perspectives

Prioritizing the well-being of their children is the most important part. It is critical to protect children from conflict and to make them feel loved and supported during the change. Collaborative co-parenting, in which both parents stay active in their children's life, creates stability and emotional security, which can help to mitigate the emotional damage, and that’s a way to lessen the emotional impact.

# data[].attributes.body
I think the most important thing for couples to lessen the emotional impact of a divorce on themselves and their families is to make use of their support systems. Although divorce has become more acceptable and seen as less extreme since the late 20th century, I’d say that people still fear being judged or stigmatized as a result of their decision to get divorced. Beyond that, I’ve noticed a tendency in American culture to stray away from discussing emotionally challenging topics. This lends to couples feeling uncomfortable with openly discussing their divorce even with their close friends/family/support system. Considering this, I’d say the main thing that would help couples going through a divorce is to destigmatize the idea of divorce in their own minds, so that they feel more comfortable talking about it and receiving support. Additionally, considering it might still be difficult to get beyond shameful feelings during a divorce, another helpful avenue could be therapy, which can be good for people to talk about their feelings as it involves opening up to someone qualified but not personally connected to one’s life. Obviously therapy can be expensive so it is not a privilege that everyone can afford, but if it is affordable for a family in question, it is a good option for both the couple and the kids in the family who are affected by the divorce to let out their feelings there and work through their struggles in an environment that feels comfortable and caring.

# data[].attributes.body
I think that the easiest way to keep things respectful with the couple as well as the family after divorce is communication. When things are left unsaid, its easy for people to fill those gaps in with the worst things possible. Particularly when children are involved, respectful communication is vital for maintaining a consistent co-parenting environment and is essential for their well-being. Children often look up to their parents as role models, so when parents engage in negative talk or constant conflicts, it can be emotionally confusing and distressing for them. Effective communication not only helps heal the wounds of the marriage but also paves the way for a more respectful post-divorce relationship. It sets the foundation for healthy co-parenting, which is vital for the stability and emotional security of the children. When parents are on amicable terms and communicate openly, it creates a stable and predictable environment for the children. This consistency helps them adjust to the new family dynamic more smoothly and reduces anxiety and confusion. Without clear communication and collaboration in co-parenting, boundaries can become blurred, and specificities regarding the children's needs and routines may be overlooked, potentially leading to future disagreements and misunderstandings. In addition, seeking family/couple therapy as well as legal support can help with those conversations, issues and boundaires that can be solved on your own.

# data[].attributes.body
Divorce is a situation that affects many families across the globe. The after-effects of it can be daunting for those who involved, including children. One way to lessen the emotional impact would be to have a nice and healthy divorce. One that is more of a mutual agreement than one that is messy and full of rage. If you have children, make their well-being a priority and seeking professional help would show them that you still prioritize them and their emotions.

# data[].attributes.body
I think one of the biggest things couples can do to lessen the emotional impact of a divorce on themselves and their families is to first make sure that divorce is the absolute correct way for them to go. I think not only the children but the parents could really be negatively affected by choosing divorce then realizing it wasn’t the right thing and having to make that drastic change of getting together again because it not only is confusing for them but for their kids. Secondly, I think that emphasizing self love and love for their children more in the process of getting divorced as young kids especially tend to think divorce might be due to them adding stress to the relationship and emphasizing love for their kids might help ease those doubts and make them realize no amount of love towards them is changing. Additionally, I think court ordered times for the parents might seem harsh but it can help stabilize things for the kids, as they don’t have to be going through the troubles of hearing fights over when what parent gets to have the kid. With court ordered times for each parent the children will b e more stable and can get used to the schedule faster than if they are always carrying times and nothing is stable. I think both the children and the parents, if needed, should go to therapy to talk about the situation as well, to ensure that mental health is prioritized.

# data[].attributes.body
In terms of lessening the emotional impact of divorce for their families, I feel as though a focus on co-parenting (if they have shared children) is a paramount issue. Creating a real plan of how to keep their child(ren) in the foreground whilst navigating a divorce may promote a healthier relationship between both parents and the children. In order to reduce the emotional impact for the partners themselves, communication is undoubtedly key. Communication is most likely going to be impaired, even if only slightly, as the process of a divorce goes on and so it’s important that, when it does occur, that it’s respectful  and open towards the other partner so as not to create unnecessary tension between them or for other family members. Furthermore, communication can ensure both parties are on the same regarding the divorce itself and that prevents any distasteful surprises which could cause anger or sadness if not previously disclosed. Finally, I feel as though many couples going through a divorce are hesitant to hire professional support such as counsellors or therapist to assist in the process and go through it alone which can add to the emotional strain immensely.

# data[].attributes.body
What the couple does after divorce differs on if they have kids or not. If the couple has kids, they should stay on good terms. Despite whatever happened in the marriage  that led to divorce, they should be civil and communicate for the sake of the kids. This will help lessen the negative emotional impact on the children. If the couple communicates, then that keeps the children from having to get involved and play mediator. Another thing they can do is keeping the childrens life as similar to what it was before as possible. Divorce means seperate houses which can be stressful on the child so the parents can try to live close to eachother so the children can stay at the same school and keep their same routine and be able to see both parents. One alternative Ive heard of is called nesting. The children stay in the home and then the parents alternate in and out of the house. This keeps the stress of having to go back and forth from house to house on the parents instead of the kids. This would probably have the lowest emotional impact because the kids wont have to move into a separate house and can maintain their life exactly as it was before. The couple should go to therapy, whether they have kids or not. This will help lessen the emotional impact of a divorce on themselves.

# data[].attributes.body
There are many arbitrary ways to prevent harmful outcomes from divorce, but I’d like to focus on three main topics - the communication style, asset division, and support systems during the process of divorce. In terms of the couple themselves, therapy and open lines of communication are necessary to prevent or mitigate resentment and conflict in the future. Verbal therapy has proved itself as a useful tool for both individuals and couples to release frustrations and concerns about the entire process, as well as an option for surrounding family members (ex. Children, step children, and related family members). I also believe that asset division and the communication of such results are important to good conduct during a divorce or separation. Families are often misinformed or “in the dark” about various asset decisions, and I feel that keeping children aware of the situation and involved in the discussion could prevent the feeling of secrecy or separation from the parents. Lastly, I find that having clear plans for support systems during and after the process is important. Friends and other family members can offer great guidance and even simple conversations that help with the mental strain that an emotional situation like divorce or separation can cause.

# data[].attributes.body
Personally, I think that communication is the most important aspect that lessens the impact of a divorce on both themselves and their family. I am going to go more into what exactly I mean by communication, but one thing that I want to make clear is that communication and divorces as a whole can be caused by a wide variety of things and therefore, every situation is different and every pair handles it differently. But, personally I think that if a couple is getting divorced, communication to their family is extremely important. I feel like in movies and modern media, you see parents trying to soften the situation for their children instead of letting them in on reality. Although it may seem easier to just say that “you are taking a break” or something of that sort to your kids, it leads the children to hold onto a false hope that their parents will be getting back together. I think that it is important for parents to effectively communicate to their children what is happening, catered to their age, in order to be sure that the individual familial relationships continue to thrive. In addition, if the situation allows, it is important for partners that have kids to be communicating in regards to their children’s lives. Both parents should be up to date on milestones, fights, and events that occur in their children's lives when the children are with the other partner. Effective communication is one of the most important and essential ways that can lessen the impact of a divorce.

# data[].attributes.body
I think communication is key. I think it would be really beneficial for people who are divorcing to have as many conversations as possible. Those conversations could be about anything, but mainly, it could help couples end their relationship on amicable terms while also helping them set boundaries for the future. In cases where possessions or kids are involved, communication can help clarify the division of property and time to the kid(s). There are situations where communication should be avoided, like if it’s a dangerous situation for one or both partners to keep in contact; however, if it’s possible, I think conversations that clear the air can be pretty helpful. Additionally, I think the gradual removal of a person from their respective families could also lessen the emotional impact of divorce. Instead of a sudden disappearance of a person from their lives, it could be beneficial for family members if the partner gradually appears less often. Hopefully, it will give everyone more time to process what is going on and give them a chance to say their goodbyes as well.

# data[].attributes.headline
This week, we've talked about statistics, causes, effects, and attempted solutions to the divorce rate in the United States. What do you think couples can do to lessen the emotional impact of a divorce on themselves and their families? 

# data[].attributes.subject
This week, we've talked about statistics, causes, effects, and attempted solutions to the divorce rate in the United States. What do you think couples can do to lessen the emotional impact of a divorce on themselves and their families? 

# data[].attributes.body
For both finding a partner and maintaining a romantic relationship, I think that various theories find their place in the mechanisms and discourse of how technology influences and can take part within these romantic processes. I think that Caughlin and Sharabi’s communicative interdependence theory, for example, definitely holds true in the relationships and romantic processes I have seen around me. Especially in more temporally mature relationships such as that of my parents, technology has introduced many unique aspects into their relationship that can lead to interesting new nuances and intricacies to how they interact with one another on a day-to-day basis. Using technology in this way alongside and integrated with face-to-face interaction represents a method to add a sense of ‘freshness’ to a relationship and could also potentially make a dulling relationship more multifaceted as well with more modes of interaction being brought into the picture. Technology, I think, also allows couples to be more selective and particular about the level of interaction they feel like conducting on a certain day – for example, if one member is in a bad mood, sick, or doesn’t feel like meeting up in-person, technology allows for a more leisurely and physically distanced mode of communication that can still keep the relationship active during these times and only to the level of activity that each individual couple defines to be right. This ease of access to many levels of interaction can definitely contribute to the healthy maintenance of a relationship especially during more tumultuous periods, and can also help in the process of taking the partner search at one’s own pace.

# data[].attributes.body
I feel that the concept of “Liquid Love” resonates most with my experience and many of my friend's experiences when it comes to dating. With the rising prominence of social media and dating apps, it almost feels that everyone is replaceable due to the extremely vast amount of options available nowadays, leading to dating feeling more like an endless chore rather than something fun and exciting. While at the baseline, we are still trying to find a significant other with whom we connect on an intimate level, societal and dating norms have made it so much harder to attain that level of a relationship leading to liquid love being utilized. While Liquid Love in some ways makes it easier to find partners, it encourages us to look at love through a superficial eye, ultimately being extremely negative for the mental health of both ourselves and others, especially because when looking through this superficial eye, it’s much more difficult to establish a long-lasting relationship, because you are always keeping another eye open for something bigger and better than the current relationship one is in. Over time this cycle impinges upon the time needed to develop important bonds with people and make lasting relationships happen.

# data[].attributes.body
I think the perspective of liquid love stood out most to me. I agree that the newfound abundance of options through online dating has made people less appreciative of what they have. I think it has also ultimately slowed down the traditional course of intimacy. While it may appear that things move faster due to the increased ability for constant communication and conversation, I think it slows the development of true intimacy built through face to face interaction, and thus lessens the bonds between partners in earlier stages. It is much harder to get attached to someone when the majority of interactions occur online in which they are very easily replaceable. Even sex is more easily replaced as well. Furthermore, when issues do arise, they are easier to ignore or avoid. People can be blocked without second thought. And with the abundance of technology, I think it can be easier to keep romantic interactions in a separate sphere from your personal life while in the past they were most likely intertwined as partners met within a shared social sphere. All of these realities create the perfect conditions for facilitating the liquid love we discussed and I see the impacts in my and many of my friends’ lives. While it is rare to find someone who has never had some kind of romantic relation, it is much easier to find people that have never had established romantic relationships defined in these terms. Instead the majority of people move from one romantic pursuit or talking stage to the next, experiencing many of these, but fewer instances of deep romantic intimacy.

# data[].attributes.body
I think the perspective of liquid love stood out most to me. I agree that the newfound abundance of options through online dating has made people less appreciative of what they have. I think it has also ultimately slowed down the traditional course of intimacy. While it may appear that things move faster due to the increased ability for constant communication and conversation, I think it slows the development of true intimacy built through face to face interaction, and thus lessens the bonds between partners in earlier stages. It is much harder to get attached to someone when the majority of interactions occur online in which they are very easily replaceable. Even sex is more easily replaced as well. Furthermore, when issues do arise, they are easier to ignore or avoid. People can be blocked without second thought. And with the abundance of technology, I think it can be easier to keep romantic interactions in a separate sphere from your personal life while in the past they were most likely intertwined as partners met within a shared social sphere. All of these realities create the perfect conditions for facilitating the liquid love we discussed and I see the impacts in my and many of my friends’ lives. While it is rare to find someone who has never had some kind of romantic relation, it is much easier to find people that have never had established romantic relationships defined in these terms. Instead the majority of people move from one romantic pursuit or talking stage to the next, experiencing many of these, but fewer instances of deep romantic intimacy.

# data[].attributes.body
Liquid love is the perspective that most align with what i’ve seen around me.

In a world connected by technology, the idea of "Liquid Love" defines how we approach relationships in the age of dating apps and internet connections. We view relationships like we view and choose products, constantly seeking the "better" option.

When relationships face challenges, people tend to abandon them rather than invest time and effort in fixing them.

While technology helps to bridge physical barriers and enhance communication, it also introduces new problems. These platforms provide too many connections and they can be rid of with one click. While this has the potential to extend perspectives, it may also result in shallow relatiionships. Commitment might be difficult to come by since there are so many options, and physical attractiveness can occasionally take precedence over deeper compatibility.

# data[].attributes.body
I think that the Communicative Interdependence Theory, combining FTF and CMC is the theory that I have seen works best in real life. In my day-to-day interactions with people, even in nonromantic relationships, I regularly combine FTF and CMC. Outside of the obvious, using CMC when you can't see the other person in person, I also regularly use CMC when I am hanging out with my friends in person. For example, we often watch movies, or play online games together, even while we are enjoying each other's physical company. I think that in today's steadily changing world, as people are not able to see each other as often, and spend a lot of time on their phones, people are using CMC even when they are in the presence of other people. So in my opinion, the Communicative Interdependence Theory is the theory that I have seen incorporated the best into practical life.

# data[].attributes.body
I've really found that every single theoretical perspective we've learned about this week had some merit, but I tend to find myself more in agreement with the negative perspectives towards technology's connection with finding love. I think in modern society, it's important to be able to handle the technological side of a relationship due to technology's integration into our day-to-day lives, but that integration usually has negative effects on our overall romantic relationship satisfaction. I definitely align with Turkle's "Connected but Alone" theory with the idea that though technology connects us to more people constantly, it makes us feel less connected, as I find people are less authentic online or over text than they would be in person. That being said, it is important to note dating apps have increased everyone's ability to pursue love and have increased the number of people one would ever have access to date, which I believe somewhat lessens the negative impact of technology when finding love. For couples already in love, I find myself agreeing with the Communicative Interdependence Theory, as couples in modern times probably have an easier time maintaining relationships such as long-distance relationships with the ability to hang out on FaceTimes or play games over the internet despite the miles separating them.

# data[].attributes.body
When finding a partner, technology can increase the efficiency of finding someone you like. In recent years, as dating apps have become more popular, more people are experimenting with them. I believe that the impact of technology on finding a partner can be both positive and negative. The use of technology to find a partner can allow an individual to meet a greater breadth of people, however, it can also lead to more superficial relationships/connections. Oftentimes, dating apps, social media, and other forms of technology can be used solely to find someone to “hookup” with, however, that is not always the case.

Throughout my friends, I have seen some individuals using technology to find a committed, long-term relationship, while I have seen others looking to find someone to have some form of uncommitted intimacy with. Although dating apps make meeting people much more accessible and, therefore, convenient, everyone on dating apps is looking for different things. Additionally, people present themselves differently online than in real life, meaning that you could get to know a “fake” person.

When maintaining a romantic relationship, technology can be both toxic and helpful. When in a long-distance relationship or spending time apart, it can be helpful to communicate through social media apps, text messages, phone calls, and more. However, an issue with technology is that it can often mask the way that your partner truthfully acts. For example, the way someone may text may be interpreted incorrectly, which could lead to a fight, thus causing issues within the relationship.

# data[].attributes.body
It has been found that technology can both benefit and hinder relationships. Technology can be beneficial for relationships. I like the idea that technology helps couples communicate more efficiently and be connected with each other even when they are apart. It allows people to find people that they would not find otherwise. It is definitely extremely beneficial especially to long distance relationships, giving them a medium to communicate and interact. It can also, however, be harmful. Technology leads to less trust in relationships. It is much easier to get jealous. Technology is at our fingertips, and sometimes we may worry that our partner is texting other people. With social media, there are so many pretty people that one may feel insecure about themselves. People also often “slide into DMs”, and they often direct message quite a few people. There exist accounts on social media where people claim that they are going to “catch cheaters in the act”, and will see if people’s partners DM(direct message) them and try to hook up with them instead of their original partner. Tone is difficult over text. It is hard to tell what people mean with their reactions over text. It might lead to problems with communication and make people think things that are not true. This is why sometimes tone indicators are used in text message conversations. When I see people meet online, I do not often see too many very positive relationships forming. People online typically enjoy hooking up, or just end up being friends or ghosting each other. Ghosting-when people text with someone and then just cut contact-is very common online. It often occurs when people do not want to contact someone anymore, or do not vibe with someone anymore.

# data[].attributes.body
For finding a partner I agree with the “liquid love” theoretical perspective. It states that individualism and tech advances have “liquified” the security of long term, committed love. Dating apps make dating more like a video game, swiping left and right on someones profile, and less serious. It is easy to connect with someone, by sending them a dm or a text. If you aren’t vibing with someone, you can just not answer, unadd or block them. Technology like dating apps, phones and social media make it easy to keep to have options. You can be snapping multiples people at once. If you do have a relationship but break up, you can easily get on a dating app or social media site and have plenty of new options at your fingertips. It can be a good and bad thing for relationships.

For maintaining a romantic relationship I agree with the Communicative Interdependence Theory. This theory states that integrating face to face (FTF) and computer-mediated communication (CMC) together is associated with high relationship satisfaction. Face to face communication is very important but computer mediated communication makes a relationship stronger. The best relationships have both aspects.

# data[].attributes.body
As a first-year college student in 2023, the usage of technology in both finding a partner and maintaining a romantic relationship is more intertwined than ever. Because it’s such a transitional period of our lives, many of the people I know are looking for more casual relationships – most of them have turned to online dating apps like Tinder and Hinge as a result. I do believe that technology can be used to find deeper connections and long-term relationships; however, I agree with Sherry Turkle’s perspective that just because technology widens the range of people we can meet doesn’t necessarily mean that we’ll develop better connections. I think it’s much easier to fake interest or “ghost” people when you’re not with them in person.

On the other hand, I think technology can help with maintaining a romantic relationship. The Communicative Interdependence Theory aligns with my own experiences of being in a relationship, especially as a teenager. Since the time you spend with your significant other is limited by many factors (ex. not having a car/license, school/work/life balance, etc.), texting and other forms of online communication can often be the main way of communicating with your partner. I also feel like there’s a level of trust and closeness that you get with communicating with people online; it’s a way of showing that you want to continue talking to them even if they’re not directly next to you. I find that once I start sending memes/posts to people, it’s a sign that I’ve grown closer to them since certain things I see online remind me of whoever I’m sending the post to.

# data[].attributes.body
The impact of technology on finding a romantic partner and maintaining the relationship is a complex topic. I believe that the communicative interdependence theory most aligns with what I have seen around me. While CMC can help to find a romantic partner, FTF can help to build the relationship and increases relationship satisfaction.

In the digital age, technology plays a key role in the way people find their partners. Online dating platforms, dating apps, and social media aid in finding romantic partners. The communicative interdependence theory states that early interactions and communication are important in the beginning stages of forming connections. In online relationships, partners rely on online platforms to get to know each other. Technology aids in maintaining relationships.

Personally, being in a long distance relationship with partner who lives in India poses many challenges. The 12.5 hour time difference makes communication hard. The communicative interdependence theory which emphasizes the use of both FTF and CMC is clearly highlighted in my relationship. I go back to India every 4 months and hence only get to meet him then. Our FTF interactions help us to significantly build our bond and to know each other more. For the other months when I am in college, which make up a significant part of our year, social media and FaceTime make communication much easier. It helps us to connect and stay committed even though we are separated by time and space.

# data[].attributes.body
When it comes to technology’s impact on finding a partner, I heavily observe Caughlin and Sharabi’s theory of Communicative Interdependence in my everyday life. Given that phone usage seems so detrimental in our everyday lives, I often see couples communicating via screens more than face-to-face, even if they are in each other’s vicinity. I think that this practice is influenced by the fact that videos and photos can evoke different feelings of intimacy, just like quality FTF time can. Thus, when they’re integrated, they aid relationships. Regarding which perspective on maintaining a romantic relationship aligns the most with what I see and experience, I would say technology bridging time and space is most fitting. Considering long-distance relationships are prevalent in college, technology is routinely used to keep couples in contact, thus prolonging relationships. This perspective also applies to platonic relationships, as my best friend and I can remain super close because of technological advantages like Facetime, and message. Another perspective I would say is common in the ages seen around me would be the perspective that technology allows for visualization. This perspective plays hand-in-hand with technology bridging time and space, as they both aid the existence of long-distance relationships. For instance, from the technology-visualization perspective, the transaction of videos and photos can help relationships feel more intimate. A personal experience I can share is that within my friend group, we will share weekly photo dumps to visually update each other on what's going on in our lives.

# data[].attributes.body
The theoretical perspective that most aligns with what I’ve seen around me is Fox and Vendemia’s technology and beauty standards theory. In this theory, they suggest that dating apps and social media have created a Selective Self-Presentation in which users will curate what gets shown to the public. As a result, their appearance, status, and success become manipulated by the people, creating an illusion of a person who is not like this in reality. I’ve seen this phenomenon play out in my life all over social media. People try to remind each other that Instagram and other platforms are just “highlight reels” of the best aspects of someone’s life; however, when a person is consuming this information regularly, they may struggle to keep this in mind. In relation to dating, these perpetuating beauty standards transition over to selective dating on different apps in which individuals will pick a partner based on a facade. As a result, people may struggle to find genuine connections with authentic people. Another effect of Fox and Vendemia’s theory is that users of dating apps may raise their standards to unachievable levels based on unrealistic expectations.

# data[].attributes.body
Overall, from what I have seen around me, technology mostly negatively impacts romantic relationships. On one hand, technology and social media definitely make it much easier to find a partner. As seen in Rosenfeld, Thomas, and Hausen’s study, technology increases our access to potential partners. Without social media, people can only meet potential partners through face-to-face interactions. This means that the circle of people they are exposed to is typically very limited to the places where they spend the most time/where they live. However, social media widens this circle significantly. It gives people access to millions of people across the globe. Dating apps also make it very easy to find people who are also looking for a potential partner. However, this accessibility gives rise to problems in the quality and longevity of romantic relationships. Bauman’s concept of “liquid love” argues that technology has “liquified” the security of long-term relationships. This is due to the fact that when a committed relationship doesn’t work out, people are quick to end the relationship instead of putting in the time and effort to make it work because they have the security of knowing they can go on social media/dating apps and quickly find a new partner. While technology does have some benefits in finding a partner, it also plays a negative role in the commitment of relationships.

# data[].attributes.body
From my perspective, under the technology advancement scenario, both the FTF and CMC play a major positive role in finding and maintaining a romantic relationship. Though these two are separated theories, they could be combined and utilized well. As an international student studying in the U.S., many of my high school classmates came together to form a romantic relationship. While they could see each other every day while they were on campus, this type of FTF stopped when winter or summer breaks came. Even for students who came from the same country, they most likely came from a different state or province, which made the maintaining a romantic relationship difficult. However, using technology to chat online and facetime made things a lot easier for those couples. There was normally a smooth transition from FTF to CMC or the other way around. It is also true that maintaining a romantic relationship through long distance could be difficult, but at least the role of technology in it makes this type of relationship more stable. From what I observed, it was often theoretical disagreements or the feelings of insecurities that led to the termination of a relationship rather than other reasons. On the other hand, it is also true that technology makes it easier for one side of the relationship to cheat on the other side, but that is not happening on most cases. Therefore, I would argue that the benefits of combining FTF and CMC is more than the issues they bring.

# data[].attributes.body
The theoretical perspective I’ve heavily observed while at USC is the concept of “liquid love” developed by Bauman. In college, I’ve noticed that those looking for romantic connections are often not interested in committed, long-term relationships. Because of this lack of commitment, there is less weight or burden on ending romantic connections because they weren’t serious to begin with. Rather than long-term relationships, I’ve seen many people around me enter “situationships” that both start and end quickly. Technology is a significant factor in the rise of liquid love, especially the use of social media and dating apps. For example, a guy could be talking to multiple girls on Instagram DMs and simply move on from one girl to the next when he feels like trying someone new. I’ve observed very little stability in college relationships because of how easy it is to scout out new partners online. In terms of maintaining romantic relationships, concepts I’ve particularly noticed are media multiplexity theory and communicative interdependence theory. A prominent example of the integration of FTF and CMC leading to higher relationship satisfaction is the use of social media in relationships. I’ve noticed that when individuals post their significant other on apps like Instagram, it almost acts like an official cementing of their relationship. Through this “hard launch,” couples can develop their relationship in both in-person and online spaces, leading to higher satisfaction. I’ve also observed communicative interdependence theory through couples’ use of texting. Because of how hectic college life is, it’s difficult to consistently meet up with your partner. A combination of texting and meeting face-to-face leads to higher satisfaction because allows couples to have more frequent interaction with each other.

# data[].attributes.body
The theory of dramaturgy is most relevant to finding a partner under the impact of technology. There definitely seems to be a social script with regards to how to attract a partner/get a first date with them even while interacting online. There are social “rules” on how to communicate and show interest ranging from not replying to texts too fast (a few minutes) nor too slow (days), liking a story post only after a certain amount of time, or sliding into someone’s dm’s with an appropriate (flirty, funny, and not overly sexual) pickup line. Additionally, finding romance through social media seems to be further linked with dramaturgy in that even before interactions with someone else, the way we present ourselves on social media is a sort of “role” we play. Our pictures, captions, bio etc. are all curated to convey specific aspects we want to be associated with/perceived as, with regards to what aesthetics or what social groups we belong to. The social roles of dramaturgy seem to also work along with the influence of the gender power structure, with women generally trying to present themselves on dating apps and social media as part of the group of women belonging to “emphasized femininity” and men generally doing the same with hegemonic masculinity. With regards to maintaining a romantic relationship, the theory of maintenance behaviors for increasing relationship satisfaction along with love languages seems most aligned with the relationships I’ve seen be successful even in this age of technology.

# data[].attributes.body
As for both of these topics, I agree the most with Michael Rosenfield’s discoveries in how people find a romantic partner. His research claims that most people tend to find their relationships and dating partners primarily from dating apps. I want to emphasize especially his findings that there was still an “in person” element that is typically present during these situations - in which friends and acquaintances still usually play a role. Oftentimes, they will provide commentary, advice and support during one’s dating processes, helping one complete their profile or reviewing possible mates’ authenticity and validity. One of the most powerful ways that technology has altered both the processes of finding partners and maintaining those relationships that end up as an outcome are the algorithmic developments that have been made. There are immense improvements that have allowed individuals to filter their suggestions based on logistical details, such as age, location, and availability, as well as more personal discrepancies, such as smoking and drinking habits, sexual preference, and love languages.

# data[].attributes.body
The rise of technology, whether or not it be positive or negative, is hugely affecting the patterns in forming and maintaining romantic relationships. Some say that it's no different than meeting someone at a bar or even a library where you approach them based on their appearance, and I do see a valid point in that. No one fully knows what a person is like when deciding to talk to them in the first place. Regarding finding a partner online, there are countless apps nowadays that promote words like "genuine," "real," and "friendship," I think because they know that people have negative stereotypes about finding partners online which seems more casual and for hookups. There are pros and cons to finding partners online. Some pros might be convenience (either swipe left or right based on quick, self-presented information), and accessibility to widely different types of people (some might struggle to find partners in real life). Some cons might be the depth of the relationship (there seem to be shallower connections through online connections, certainly there are exceptions), and unknown possibilities (even though this happens in real life, it is more common online). Overall, I think that people have different purposes in pursuing romantic relationships and technology serves that just right, giving them a variety of choices.

# data[].attributes.body
Technology has an increasingly impactful influence on people's perception of relationships as well as someone's ability to find a romantic partner. Through the modern communication perspective when focusing on how media and technology shape public discourse is increasing in communicative differences such as shifting from face to face communication to digital. This devles into what the text was discussing with the cues-filtered-out perspective. When people communicate, especially through certain channels like written text or email, they may miss out on nonverbal cues such as tone of voice, facial expressions, or body language, which can be crucial for fully understanding the message. It also can overcomplicate a relationship and cause a person to draw conclusions on something that might not be true thus ending a relationship or creating tension. Therefore, into the 2nd point it would be hard to maintain a healthy relationship with the cues-filtered-out perspective. Additionally according to the text the aptitude perspective heavily focuses. It involves assessing a person's natural talents, cognitive abilities, and aptitudes to determine their suitability for a particular task. This can also apply to people when choosing a partner because it assess the compatibility between two people as well as their matching interests. It contributes to the 1st part of the argument of how people can choose partners but also the maintenance of a relationship. Since according to the text it involves assessing a person's natural talents, cognitive abilities, and aptitudes to determine their suitability for a particular task it not only potiential similarities meaning attraction but alsao asses capatability.