Effectiveness of Repeated Marriage Checkups in a Family Center

Abstract

The present study examined the effectiveness of repeated marriage checkups at intervals of six months in a Family Center in Seoul. To achieve this, the pilot study protocol (Park, 2019) was adapted, emphasizing strength-based, counseling-oriented approaches. Two couples and family therapists with master’s degrees were trained and their practice was monitored to ensure program fidelity. The methods employed for the assessment of marriage checkup were an online survey, a video recording of couple problem-solving, and a clinical interview. A total of 14 couples participated in the 1st checkup, 10 of whom also completed the 2nd checkup. Couples with varying levels of marital satisfaction participated in the program. Descriptive statistics indicated gradual increases over 8-9 months in diverse indices such as marital satisfaction and relationship strength, while other indices fluctuated slightly but converged to higher levels over time. A non-parametric analysis appropriate for small samples demonstrated statistically significant increases over the 8-9 months in marital satisfaction among couples. The current study evidenced the effectiveness of repeated marriage checkups in the Family Center, which is the primary public institution for family policy and services in Korea. Repeated marriage checkups are therefore a promising way to enhance couples’ relationship health and improve the family management system of the Family Center.