What are some positive factors which foster the continuation of a relationship?and What steps can couple take to avoid the deterioration phase?

Answer 1

You might think about honesty, fidelity, mutual respect, unselfishness, etc.

We'll be happy to comment on your answers.

Answer 2

Possibly these articles might help:

http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/AttractionEconomy.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/IntimateNewYear.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/IntimacyBarriers.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/IntimacyQuotient.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/MarriageRecipe.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/Relationbships.html

I hope this helps a little more. Thanks for asking.