Details for Relationships

How do I develop strong relationships, whether friendships, marriage or family? Should I get married or remain single? How do I deal with the changing dynamics of family and relationships through the life stages? If ever a unit was needed to clarify the confusion found in the ‘relationships’ section of the local Christian bookstore, this is it. Whether young, old, single, betrothed, married or unspecified, all are invited to come and explore the inner workings of relationships, marriage and the family, as it has unfolded throughout history and wider society. Specifically this subject aims to develop skills to strengthen your relationships and assist those you minister to in everyday life.

Quick Info

Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
Course code: MIN305
Credit points: 10
Subject coordinator: Nigel Pegram

Prerequisites

The following courses are prerequisites:

At least 80 credit points including MIN101—Introduction to Pastoral Ministry

Awards offering Relationships

This unit is offered as a part of the following awards:

Unit Content

Curriculum Objective

This subject explores the issues of marriage and family within society and more specifically within a church/Christian context. Biblical foundations and understandings are examined. The subject also considers the related areas of singleness and divorce.

Outcomes

Demonstrate an advanced ability to integrate appropriate communication skills and courses of action within a range of relational settings, including personal and ministry contexts;
Summarise and critique the characteristics and processes of various relationship models;
Develop and support a theological and biblical foundation for family ministry. This includes consideration of other Christian perspectives and understandings;
Critique a range of family ministries implemented by churches and church agencies, including education, prevention and strength-enhancing programs, crisis intervention, therapy, and family advocacy;
Critically evaluate the importance of healthy relationships as a criterion for church and church agency ministries, as well as assessing such ministries and programs from this perspective.

Subject Content

A Theological Foundation for Family Relationships
The Family as a Developing System.
Romance and Reality
Establishing a Strong Marriage
Christian Marriage
Parenting
Family Spirituality
Changing Gender Roles
Becoming an Authentic Sexual Self
Expressing love: Achieving Intimacy. Expressing anger: Negotiating Conflicts
Becoming Powerful through Empowerment
Through the Stress and Strain of Family Life
Complex Families in Contemporary Society

This course may be offered in the following formats

Face to Face (onsite)
Distance/E-learning (online)
Intensive (One week: 7 hours per day for 5 days = 35 class hours + approx 108 hours out of class time for research, writing, exam preparation and execution, ancillary activities associated with completion of assigned tasks)

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

Critical Forum Responses (20%)
Critical Review (30%)
Case Study Analysis (50%)

Prescribed Text

Primary readings provided