In general terms, DeGenova specifies four criteria that must coexist effectively for a marriage to be successful: “durability, closeness to ideals, satisfaction of needs and satisfaction” (p. 174). First, durability in itself is not indicative of a successful marriage because many couples remain in unhappy relationships for a variety of reasons. Instead, durability must include stability and quality. Second, the approximation of ideals represents the extent to which the relationship satisfies ideals and exceptions. The main concern is that such ideals are individually subjective. Third, need satisfaction includes psychological, social, and sexual needs such as love, self-fulfillment, affection, approval, companionship, and friendship. Of primary importance is that the fulfillment of this need is mutually beneficial with the mutual effort of both parties to ensure the well-being of their partner. Finally, satisfaction reflects the extent to which spouses are satisfied and satisfied with their marriage. Again, the subjective nature of these constructs complicates an adequate assessment of whether a specific marriage meets this criterion. In addition to these concepts, it is necessary to evaluate the degree of happiness or unhappiness within a relationship. As you would expect, positive actions are reciprocated in this way and vice versa. Of primary concern is a person's perpetuation of negativity after their spouse makes a negative comment, thus prolonging a vicious cycle of “negative affective reciprocity” (p. 175). In happy couples, a negative action is seen as an exception to the norm and to which one responds not with negativity but with understanding and compassion; however, in unhappy couples, negative actions breed further negativity… they are crucial because they demonstrate emotional maturity in the knowledge that life is dynamic and that changes and challenges will occur. Possible deficiencies These elements are frequently found in the premarital relationship, from which recommendations for premarital counseling for all couples derive. Likewise, the state of the marriage within the first two years is indicative of long-term success as the “honeymoon phase” ends and those partners who realistically view their partner as a human being with flaws and establish a bond stable marital partners are more successful. . Therefore, individuals need to be realistic and pay attention to warning signs before marriage so that they do not regret their decisions later. Works Cited DeGenova, M. (2008). Intimate relationships, marriages, and families (7th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.