Summary of Love as a Way of Life

Love As A Way of Life is a book by clinical psychologist and marriage counselor Gary Chapman that explores the concept of love--a religious concept as muchas a psychological one--in individual relationships. Drawing from his work with couples, Chapman explains how a person's capacity to love and be loved reflects their developmental history and personal spiritual awareness. He addresses issues of trust-building, communication, and emotional needs in the context of what he calls a ‘Five Love Languages’: words of affirmation, quality time, giving and receiving gifts, acts of service, and physical touch. Chapman examines the concept of loving relationships in different contexts, from family to friendship to romantic. He provides practical guidance for couples navigating long-term relationships, looking at ways to re-ignite the transformative power of love.