Analyzing the Influence of Conflict Resolution Counseling on Relationship Outcomes Among Couples in Karenge Sector, Rwamagana District, Rwanda

Healthy marital relationships contribute significantly to family stability, social cohesion, and community well-being. However, many couples experience challenges such as poor communication, unresolved disagreements, emotional distance, and marital instability, which undermine the quality and sustainability of their unions. Conflict resolution counseling helps couples understand their differences, manage disagreements constructively, and develop healthier ways of relating. This study analyzed the influence of conflict resolution counseling on relationship outcomes among couples in Karenge Sector, Rwamagana District, Rwanda. These included married couples, marital counselors, religious leaders, and community mediators or local leaders. The study was guided by Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Couple Therapy (CBCT), and Attachment Theory, which explain how emotional connections, behavioral patterns, and attachment experiences shape marital relationships. A mixed-methods approach and a descriptive cross-sectional research design were adopted. The target population comprised married couples, marital counselors, religious leaders, and community mediators or local leaders. A sample of 171 respondents, comprising 155 married couples and 16 key informants, was determined using Yamane’s formula. Simple random sampling was used to select couples, while purposive sampling was applied to identify key informants. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including correlation and regression analysis, whereas qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings showed that respondents generally recognized the contribution of conflict resolution counseling to positive relationship outcomes. Conflict resolution counseling recorded an overall mean score of 4.02, while relationship outcomes recorded an overall mean score of 3.77. Furthermore, the regression model showed that conflict resolution counseling explained 92.0% of the variation in relationship outcomes (R Square = 0.920). The study concluded that conflict resolution counseling is an important approach to strengthening marital relationships by promoting constructive management of disagreements, mutual understanding, effective communication, and relationship stability. The study recommends expanding access to community-based counseling services through family education programs, public awareness campaigns, and stronger collaboration among local authorities, religious institutions, community mediators, and professional counselors. Such initiatives may encourage more couples to seek counseling and foster healthier and more stable marriages. Keywords: Conflict Resolution Counseling; Marital Relationships; Relationship Outcomes; Couple Communication; Marital Satisfaction