Development of a coding system for marital problem solving efficacy

Efficacy in marital problem solving has received little attention, and work on general problem solving efficacy does not address marital issues. This study examined the ability to discriminate between groups and criterion validity of an efficacy-focused marital problem solving measurement method, the Marital Efficacy Coding System, which combines marital problem scenarios with general social problem solving assessment procedures. This system was administered to nondistressed married subjects, participants in marital therapy, and divorced or separated individuals. Participants were asked to develop a set of discrete steps or 'means' as solutions to marital problem scenarios. The content was coded by a number of means, participants' ratings of problem frequency and typicality of response, and coders' ratings of efficacy and equality. Overall percentage agreement between coders was 73.4%. Marital Efficacy Coding System variables, including problem frequency, solution typicality, and solution efficacy, were shown to significantly differentiate between participants high and low in marital satisfaction and to possess significant predictive ability.