Abstract

A multiple baseline single case study design was used to examine the effects of a narrative and resiliency-based intervention for couples with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Using piecewise multilevel modeling (MLM), the study evaluated changes in depressive symptoms, dyadic coping (DCI), and growth and empowerment measure (Emotional Empowerment Scale [EES-14] and 12 Scenarios [12S]) across waitlist and treatment phases. Five couples (10 individuals) participated in up to 17 waves, with staggered baseline and treatment lengths across dyads. Results indicated significant fixed effects of the 12S subscale for growth and empowerment during the treatment phase. There were no statistically significant fixed effects for either the waitlist or treatment slopes for depression, DCI, and EES-14. Visual inspection of the trajectories highlighted heterogeneity in response, with couples demonstrating improved empowerment, DCI, and depression scores. Post hoc qualitative responses (n = 7) suggested perceived improvements in anxiety management, relational trust, communication, and self-compassion, while one participant reported increased conflict following the surfacing of trauma narratives.

Degree

PhD

College and Department

Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Family Life

Rights

https://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/

Date Submitted

2025-12-11

Document Type

Dissertation

Keywords

single-case, narrative, couples, multilevel model, dyadic data, intervention, resilience

Language

english

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