"How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk or Jerkette" is a five-part relationship education series designed for adults seeking or in between romantic relationships. The series, based on relationships research and presented with humor, helps those who participate learn about:

• the major areas that predict what a person will be like in marriage
• the bonding forces that must be kept in balance as a relationship grows

Relationships fail for many different reasons. The result is typically hurt and disappointment. The most frustrating relationship failures are those that could have been avoided by being a better "love consumer." The saying, "love is blind" is all too often true. It is possible to learn what to look for in a healthy, positive relationship, including how to spot and heed the warning signs or "red flags" of relationship trouble ahead.

Through activities, and discussions, participants gain the skills for predicting what their romantic partner will be like in marriage. Along with this knowledge of their partner, participants learn how to value and keep a balance between the messages from their minds and their hearts.

Children who have lived through their parents' divorce often fear commitment when they reach adulthood. For this reason, Extension invites single parents to bring their young adult children, age 17 and up, to "How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk or Jerkette" at no extra charge (pre-registration call to the Extension office is requested).