Analysis of Factors Related to Marital Satisfaction and Intimacy Based on Lived Experience of Incompatible Couples

Document Type : Original Research

Authors

1 PhD Student in Counseling, Department of Counseling, Yazd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Yazd, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Islamic Azad University of Yazd, Iran

3 Professor, Department of Sociology, Yazd, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran

Abstract

One’s current marital or romantic relationship status can be assessed according to marital satisfaction and intimacy. This study aimed to investigate the factors related to intimacy and marital satisfaction based on the lived experience of incompatible couples. This qualitative study was conducted using a phenomenological approach. The statistical population of the study included all incompatible couples in Yazd in 2020. A total of 12 couples (24 persons/12 females and 12 males) were selected by purposive sampling. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interviews and then coded by Colaizzi’s method and analyzed through extracting main themes and subthemes. The results showed that the dimensions of the pattern of intimacy and marital satisfaction based on the analysis of couples’ lived experience include family factors (interference in couples’ marital life, not respecting the spouse), interpersonal factors (lack of mutual trust, lack of empathy, lack of privacy), and individual factors (irresponsibility, insecure attachment, emotional immaturity). The results also revealed paying attention to family, interpersonal, and individual factors helps couples to experience more satisfaction and intimacy in life. 

Keywords

References

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Biannual Journal of Applied Counseling
Volume 12, Issue 1
September 2022
Pages 63-90

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History

  • Receive Date: 14 January 2022
  • Revise Date: 03 July 2022
  • Accept Date: 03 July 2022

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