The Effects of the Couples Communication Program on Marital Communication and Perceived Satisfaction with the Relationship

The increasing popularity of marital enrichment programs suggests a need for a systematic analysis of their effectiveness. Earlier evaluative studies contained numerous methodological shortcomings, making it difficult to draw inferences about enrichment-induced change. Twenty married couples participated in the Couples Communication Program (CCP) or a placebo control group. Measures of marital communication and perceived marital adjustment were obtained prior to the program, at the conclusion of the program and at a one month follow-up. The simulation measure of communication indicated that the experimental couples learned the skill taught in the CCP. However, there was no significant change in marital satisfaction. Empirical issues which should be addressed in future research were discussed.