How Shifting Social Identities Impacts Relationship Satisfaction - Niecie Jones
In this insightful webinar hosted by the Utah Marriage Commission, Dr. Niecie Jones delves into the impact of shifting social identities on relationship satisfaction. As a marriage and family therapist, she offers valuable perspectives on how identities, shaped by race, gender, and social class, affect personal dynamics. Dr. Jones also shares conflict resolution strategies and tips for improving relationship satisfaction, providing actionable advice for couples navigating complex social and political landscapes. Key topics include mindfulness, distress tolerance, and values
Time Markers
00:00-00:27 – Welcome & Intro
Nyah introduces Dr. Niecie Jones and her expertise with African American communities.
00:27-01:14 – Dr. Jones’ Background
Dr. Jones shares her education, therapy work, and DEI consulting experience.
01:14-01:57 – Kicking Off
Dr. Jones previews her topic on shifting identities in relationships.
01:57-03:13 – Military Family Life
How frequent moves shaped Dr. Jones' view on people and relationships.
03:13-05:21 – Career Path
Dr. Jones talks about balancing private practice and corporate consulting.
05:21-06:14 – Book Teaser
Announcement of her upcoming book on identity and growth.
06:14-07:36 – Social Identities 101
Explaining the ADDRESSING framework on identity factors.
07:36-10:09 – Social Movements & Identity
How movements like civil rights shaped identity perspectives.
10:09-12:06 – Politics & Relationships
Research on political differences impacting relationship satisfaction.
12:06-13:00 – Politics is Personal
How political views shape personal identity, especially for marginalized groups.
13:00-17:08 – Case Study
A couple’s story of navigating racial and political identity differences.
17:08-20:00 – Politics & Identity Shifts
How leadership shifts influence personal and relational identity.
20:00-29:00 – Skills for Shifting Identities
Four skills: mindfulness, distress tolerance, conflict resolution, shared values.
29:00-33:01 – Mindfulness Tools
Staying aware of identity dynamics in relationships.
33:01-39:00 – Distress Tolerance
Practical techniques for managing emotional distress.
39:00-42:00 – Conflict Resolution
Using “I” statements, active listening, and the VCR method.
42:00-46:05 – Shared Values
Using ACT tools to discover values and boost relationship strength.
46:05-49:16 – Q&A: Active Listening
Tips for improving partner communication and listening skills.
49:16-53:37 – Q&A: Language Barriers
Advice for couples with different native languages and cultural awareness.
53:37-55:14 – Q&A: Polite Expression
Using soft startups to avoid defensiveness and improve conversations.
About Dr. Niecie Jones:
Dr. Niecie Jones is a multi-hyphenate professional trained in many therapy models. She received her master's degree from Utah State University and her doctoral degree from East Carolina University. She currently has a private practice where she works with clients in both Utah and California. Niecie enjoys working with African American and other Black populations the most. She is passionate about community work and creating spaces of trust, curiosity, and connection. Niecie is also a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant in industries ranging from the non-profit sector to tech companies. Additionally, she co-creates a healing space for Black women called Radical Restoration that focuses on the intersection of rest, creativity, and healing.
Dr. Niecie Jones Link:
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