Dyadic Free Association

Abstract

Data are reported from a pilot study designed to compare a Free Association Test for married couples with the standard individual form. Results from one group of five couples indicate that presence of marital partner is likely to alter the pattern and increase the levels of anxiety and hostility expressed by a person, even though congruence between spouses is not enhanced. Couples' scores may provide the basis for profiles of different types of marital pairs. A more comprehensive evaluation of the dyadic technique seems desirable, particularly since it can be used to analyze a range of “associated” pair relationships.