Introduction
John Hitt Lee is a renowned expert in the field of interpersonal relationships. Known for developing the theory of love styles, Lee’s work has provided valuable insight into how people form and maintain emotional connections. Educators looking to impart this knowledge to their students can follow this comprehensive guide to teach about John Lee and his influential ideas.
I. Background Information on John Lee
Before diving into his theories, it is essential to provide your students with context about who John Lee was and how he contributed to the study of interpersonal relationships:
1. Biography: Discuss key details about John Lee’s life, including his birthplace, education, and other personal information that reveal more about him.
2. Career: Provide an overview of Lee’s professional background, including his work in academia, and how it led to his development of love style theories.
3. Notable works: Share some of Lee’s essential writings, such as “The Colors of Love.” This will give students a foundation for understanding his perspective on relationships.
II. The Theory of Love Styles
Introduce your students to John Lee’s most famous contribution – the six love styles he identified through extensive research and observation.
1. Brief definition: Explain what love styles are – the different ways in which people experience and express love in their interpersonal relationships.
2. Overview of the six love styles:
a. Eros (Romantic Love): Characterized by intense emotions and physical attraction.
b. Ludus (Game-playing Love): Focused on the thrill of the chase and casual involvement.
c. Storge (Friendship-based Love): Growing out of long-term familiarity and shared values.
d. Pragma (Practical Love): Logical partnership based on compatibility and shared goals.
e. Mania (Obsessive Love): Jealous, possessive and marked by extreme highs and lows.
f. Agape (Selfless Love): Altruistic love that prioritizes the partner’s needs over one’s own.
3. Mapping relationships in terms of love styles: Teach students how to use these styles to identify patterns in their relationships and evaluate their compatibility with others.
III. Practical Applications
Use real-life examples and interactive group activities to help students apply what they have learned about John Lee’s theories.
1. Case studies: Offer real-world examples of relationships that exemplify each love style, discussing how they can lead to different outcomes.
2. Compatibility activity: Encourage students to pair up and discuss their love styles, identifying commonalities and potential areas of concern.
3. Self-reflection: Task your students with evaluating their past or current relationships, applying John Lee’s love styles as a lens for understanding their experiences.
4. Role play: Develop scenarios that allow students to practice implementing healthy communication and boundary-setting within the context of various love styles.
Conclusion
Teaching students about John Lee’s work on love styles can deepen their understanding of interpersonal relationships and provide valuable tools for their personal lives. By following this comprehensive guide, educators can ensure that their lessons on John Lee are engaging, informative, and applicable.
