The Behavioral Effects of Training Premarital Couples in Mutual Problem Solving;Skills

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to extend the evaluation of the effectiveness of a mutual problem solving training program (MPS) for premarital couples. The 19 couples who participated in this problem solving program were compared to 19 couples who were involved in a relationship discussion group (RD). The two groups were compared on behavior changes in `work' and `non-work' interaction styles at pre-test, post-test, and follow-up. Training for both groups lasted ten weeks, three hours per week. Results indicated that the MPS group, relative to the RD group, showed a significant increase in one `work' style and decreased in one `non-work' style. The same pattern of results was maintained at follow-up, six months later.