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Prevention of marital dysfunction: behavioral approaches and beyond
S L Sayers1, C S Kohn, C Heavey
1Department of Psychiatry, Eastern Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute, Allegheny University of the Health Sciences, Philadelphia 19129, USA. sayers@auhs.edu
Clinical Psychology Review
|October 21, 1998
Summary
Skills-based marriage preparation programs show promise in preventing marital dysfunction. These programs foster behavioral changes that can improve relationship health and well-being for couples and families.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Family Studies
- Public Health
Background:
- Marital dysfunction significantly impacts mental, physical, and economic well-being in the U.S.
- Marital discord and divorce negatively affect children's development.
- Current prevention programs have historical roots in addressing these issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development of marriage preparation programs.
- To critically evaluate existing marriage preparation programs based on peer-reviewed literature.
- To identify strategies for enhancing program effectiveness using prevention principles.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of peer-reviewed literature on marriage preparation programs.
- Analysis of 13 studies examining program outcomes.
- Evaluation of program methodologies and suggestions for improvement.
Main Results:
- Behaviorally oriented, skills-based programs demonstrate potential in preventing marital dysfunction.
- These programs can lead to positive behavioral changes in couples.
- Methodological rigor in program evaluations has shown modest improvement.
Conclusions:
- Skills-based marriage preparation is a viable strategy for preventing marital dysfunction.
- Continued improvement in evaluation methodologies is recommended.
- Integrating prevention principles can enhance program effectiveness for long-term relationship health.