In marriage, partners bring together preexisting psychological and cul- tural histories which may be quite disparate. The idea that "love con- quers all" does not account for the complexities involved in the development of a contemporary partnership. Societal changes over the past few decades have resulted in impor- tant shifts in patterns of relationships. Lengthened life spans, decreased incidence and severity of illness and disability, and the availability of contraception have affected our lives and plans substantially. Among the effects are marriages that last longer than they ever have...