FOCCUS
is an internationally used inventory designed to provide engaged
couples and those working with them a PERSONALIZED PROFILE of
what is needed in their marriage preparation process.
It is both a starting place for couple discussion and a map of what
issues need time and attention, affirmation or problem solving.
156
basic questions plus additional questions for remarried,
interfaith and/or cohabiting couples.
Not
a test but the source of the FOCCUS REPORT which
shows patterns of strengths and challenges in 19 categories for
couples to use independently with a trained coach or as
part of other preparation processes.
Strong
psychometric characteristics: high reliability with content,
construct and predictive validity.
"FOCCUS
is a self-diagnostic inventory designed to help couples learn
more about themselves and their unique relationship."
FOCCUS
is a 156-item instrument (with an additional 33 optional items
for interfaith couples, cohabiting couples and couples in
which one or both partners are remarrying) that was developed
in 1984-86, updated with cohabiting couple items in 1997 and
revised in 2000 with new research based items in the areas
related to spirituality and religion. All editions have strong
psychometric characteristics of reliability, content,
construct and predictive validity.
FOCCUS
is a self diagnostic inventory designed to help couples learn
more about themselves and their unique relationship. It is not
a test nor meant as a predictor of success or failure. It is a
tool to help couples identify and work through issues before
marriage. Although used by many educators and counselors,
FOCCUS is not primarily a counseling nor teaching tool. It is
a discussion instrument intended to maximize the total
marriage preparation by tailoring it to the individual couple
and by providing comprehensive content and process that best
serves the couple preparing for marriage and those working
with them.
FOCCUS
is designed to be used at three levels.
The
1st level initiates individual and couple awareness and
discussion of issues. It begins when each partner responds
independently to the inventory items (45 to 60 minutes) and is
then encouraged to explore thoughts and responses with the
other even before reviewing their FOCCUS REPORT with a
coach.
The
2nd level involves facilitation of the couple’s discussion
and problem solving around patterns identified within
categories in their FOCCUS REPORT.
FOCCUS coaches make use of a Facilitator Manual that
includes explanation of all patterns and hundreds of
additional resource questions. FOCCUS is designed for use by
both professional counselors and trained lay coaches.
At the completion of the discussion of the FOCCUS REPORT, both
partners complete a form called FOCCUS for the Future, which
helps them consolidate what they have learned about their
relationship and plan how to use this in their future.
The 3rd level involves two
kinds of referrals. The first kind is not needed by every
couple and is for specialized assistance (e.g., domestic
violence, alcoholism, sexual dysfunction). The second referral
is to educational or skill training programs, i.e.,
PreCana, Kupendana Workshop, or
a parish-base marriage education program.
What
is FOCCUS?
FOCCUS
is a 156-item instrument (with an additional 33 optional items
for interfaith couples, cohabiting couples and couples in
which one or both partners are remarrying) that was developed
in 1984-86, updated with cohabiting couple items in 1997 and
revised in 2000 with new research based items in the areas
related to spirituality and religion. All editions have strong
psychometric characteristics of reliability, content,
construct and predictive validity. 
FOCCUS coaches make use of a Facilitator Manual that
includes explanation of all patterns and hundreds of
additional resource questions. FOCCUS is designed for use by
both professional counselors and trained lay coaches.
At the completion of the discussion of the FOCCUS REPORT, both
partners complete a form called FOCCUS for the Future, which
helps them consolidate what they have learned about their
relationship and plan how to use this in their future.