Partnership and Ego Equality in the Marital System

SUMMARY

Ego equality, a term originating with the author, is the individual's ability to be a peer and to engage in peer interactions. This ability is a basic factor of dyadic systems. However, it is a factor that is often overlooked because of its apparent simplicity. Ego equality is presented here to accent the importance of the concept and to reinforce the significance of cross-gender partnership as a core issue in ail work with couples.

The dyadic system is examined in terms of hierarchical structure. In addition the historical antecedents of inequitable structures are explored in the context of families of origin and other social systems. Disturbances in peer interactions are viewed as the foundation of symptom such as excessive non-productive conflict, unsatisfying sexual relations, and a loss of intimacy. Other therapeutic considerations are included.