This course is to discuss microsociological dynamics of marriage and intimate relationships in modern society. The purpose is to provide students with a more perceptive awareness of marriage and intimate relationships in everyday life. Specifically, this course examines the evolutionary origin, formation, development, maintenance, change and termination of marriage and other close relationships characterized by emotional and sexual intimacy. The course mainly focuses on but not limited to close relationships between men and women. Key themes include relationship structure, interaction and communication, love, partner selection, stress, parenting, infidelity, conflict, and violence or dissolution.