Twelve couples from the Melkite and Maronite dioceses of Sidon reflected with psychologist Patricia Barcha Bassil on the biological and psychological differences between men and women, family systems and complementarity in marriage.
As part of Metanoia Listening Center's program of work with couples, 12 couples from various parishes of the Greek Melkite Catholic Diocese of Sidon and Deir El-Qamar and of the Maronite Diocese of Sidon, together with members of the diocesan Family Committee, took part in a couples gathering on Saturday 14 June with psychologist Mrs. Patricia Barcha Bassil on the differences between men and women: biological differences and ways of thinking.
In her introduction she explained that the difference between them is not limited to appearance but includes the way they think: studies have shown biological, psychological and social differences that affect how information is processed and how people act. Women are often better at expressing themselves, though emotion can outweigh their reasoning, and they value sharing; men are stronger in motor planning, their thinking is logical and direct, and they focus on finding a solution. She broadened the theme to include social and cultural influences on individuals and the way they are raised. After a detailed explanation of these differences, she stressed that understanding them builds successful relationships founded on respect and understanding.
In the second part, Mrs. Bassil explained in detail the "family system" and its elements, such as roles and rules, and described the types of families: balanced, authoritarian, chaotic and disconnected. In the last part of the gathering she explained the concept of complementarity between spouses, in which each completes the other psychologically, emotionally and practically. Difference is a source of strength and balance between spouses, and a successful marriage needs love, respect and mutual support.
Mrs. Bassil concluded by wishing the couples a life of joy, because God created us to live in joy, and advised them to do fun activities that bring joy into their hearts and their family.
After the talk, the participants met over simple refreshments and exchanged conversation and experiences.
