Expectations Quote by M. Scott Peck
“The problem of unmet expectations in marriage is primarily a problem of stereotyping. Each and every human being on this planet is a unique person. Since marriage is inevitably a relationship between two unique people, no one marriage is going to be exactly like any other. Yet we tend to wed with explicit visions of what a “good” marriage ought to be like. Then we suffer enormously from trying to force the relationship to fit the stereotype and from the neurotic guilt and anger we experience when we fail to pull it off.”
About This Quote
Source Book: People of the Lie by M. Scott Peck, 1983
Marriage suffers when partners impose idealized stereotypes instead of recognizing each other's individuality.
In simple terms: Stereotypes hurt marriage.
Accept each other's uniqueness.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- couples counseling
- relationship building
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can couples identify their own expectations?
- What habits help honor individuality?
Stereotypes can be hard to recognize and change.