Explaining the Psychological Dynamics of Relationships Among Couples on the Verge of Divorce
Keywords:
Couple relationships, Divorce, Psychological dynamics, Marital conflict, Emotion regulation, Relational identityAbstract
This study aimed to develop an integrative model explaining the psychological dynamics underlying relationships among couples on the verge of divorce. This research employed a qualitative review design grounded in data-driven theoretical analysis. Data were collected exclusively through a systematic review of national and international scientific literature on marital relationships, couple conflict, and divorce processes. Following targeted database searches, 15 eligible articles were selected based on inclusion criteria and analyzed until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data management and coding were conducted using NVivo 14. The analytic process involved open, axial, and selective coding, resulting in the development of a comprehensive conceptual model. The analysis yielded three core themes: erosion of emotional bonding, cycles of conflict and communication breakdown, and transformation of relational identity leading to divorce decision-making. These processes revealed that emotional dysregulation, cognitive distortions, trust deterioration, communication blockage, and shifts in relational values interactively accelerate marital dissolution. Psychological dynamics of couples approaching divorce reflect a complex interactive system of emotional, cognitive, communicative, and identity-based processes, indicating that effective interventions must simultaneously address these dimensions to prevent marital breakdown.
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