Abstract

Relationship satisfaction is a popular variable to consider when looking at long-term success for couples. Research indicates positive and negative events have an impact on relationship satisfaction. Considering the influence of the Vulnerability-Stress-Adaptation framework, the present study focuses on the daily impact of positive and negative events that happen outside of therapy on couple relationship satisfaction for couples seeking therapy. Daily diary methods were used to collect data, a first for using this method with clinical couples. Random effects and multilevel models of analysis controlled for days and couples. Results suggest that on any given day, positive events impact both male and female daily relationship satisfaction. Findings also propose that these events outside of therapy tend to occur more frequently in the evening on any given day, specifically for negative events. Understanding these findings, therapists have an opportunity to use therapy as a tool to enhance adaptive processes for couples in order for couples to continue experiencing higher levels of couple satisfaction.

Degree

PhD

College and Department

Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Marriage and Family Therapy

Rights

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

Date Submitted

2015-08-01

Document Type

Dissertation

Handle

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/etd8086

Keywords

daily diary, couple satisfaction, process research, daily interactions

Language

english

Download

Share

COinS