A Test of Contextual Theory: The Relationship Among Relational Ethics, Marital Satisfaction, Health Problems, and Depression

Keywords

Contextual theory, Relational ethics, Marital satisfaction, Depression, Health

Abstract

Few studies have examined the theoretical underpinning of contextual theory. Using structural equation modeling, the relationship among relational ethics (recognized as the most important aspect of contextual theory), marital satisfaction, depression, and illness was examined. Data came from a national sample of 632 mid-life, married individuals. Results supported Nagy’s contextual theory. The total score of the Relational Ethics Scale was a significant predictor of marital satisfaction, and marital satisfaction was significantly associated with depression and health problems. Vertical and horizontal subscales of relational ethics also were significant predictors of depression and health problems through the mediating variable of marital satisfaction.

Original Publication Citation

Grames, H.A., Miller, R.B., Robinson, W.D., Higgins, D.J., & Hinton, W.J. (2008). A test of contextual theory: The relationship among relational ethics, marital satisfaction, health problems, and depression. Contemporary Family Therapy, 30, 183-198.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2008-08-14

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/5381

Publisher

Contemporary Family Therapy

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Sociology

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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