By Grace Sailor
Marriage and family are the foundation of a society. If that is so, then why does society as a whole place family policies and family unity as a low priority? Why do states allow divorces to take place for a minimal fee with no requirements set for counseling prior to a divorce? Why does a community invest so heavily in recreational and arts programs but not in providing marriage and parenting classes?
An area in northwest Georgia has experienced the ill effects on society as families in the community deteriorated. A program called Family Frameworks was implemented to strengthen marriages, which in turn, strengthens families. Personal testimonies and statistics have proven that by requiring couples to attend communication classes that it can have a positive impact on the community.
Relationships and communication can be difficult for any individual. Effective communication skills can be learned though, and once learned can strengthen relationships. As a social worker, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact experienced by individuals and families when effective communication skills are developed.
I applaud the program Family Frameworks and any similar community programs. I strongly believe that if communities invested in marriage counseling programs and implemented policies requiring counseling before a divorce that each community would witness a decline in divorce rates which directly impacts poverty, crime, and education. Marriage and families are worth investing in.