A Review of Protective Psychological Factors in Marital Relationships
Keywords:
Marital relationships, protective factors, psychological health, marital satisfaction, couple therapyAbstract
The purpose of this study was to comprehensively identify and explain protective psychological factors influencing stability and quality of marital relationships through a qualitative review of the scientific literature. This qualitative review employed a theoretical content analysis approach. After systematic database searching and screening, 20 eligible peer-reviewed articles were selected. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis supported by NVivo 14 software, following open, axial, and selective coding procedures. Data collection and analysis continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. Analysis revealed four core domains: emotional capital of couples, relational cognitive competencies, couples’ interactional skills, and individual protective psychological resources. These interconnected domains function synergistically to enhance marital adjustment, reduce destructive conflict patterns, and promote long-term marital satisfaction and stability. Strengthening emotional, cognitive, interactional, and individual psychological resources simultaneously provides a powerful framework for improving marital health and developing effective preventive and therapeutic interventions for couples.
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