«Darf es ein wenig mehr sein?» Zur Wirksamkeit von Auffrischungssitzungen bei der Prävention von Beziehungsstörungen

Abstract

A little bit more? The Impact of Adding Booster Sessions to a Prevention Training Program for Marital Distress Introduction: There is still a lack of indicated prevention programs for couples who, although subjectively concerned about their relationship, do not seek marital therapy. In a previous study, the efficacy of a cognitive-behavioral psychoeducational program delivered on a weekend by 2 trainers for groups of 4 couples was established. The program consists of communication and problem-solving training, couples’ discussions to clarify their relationship expectations, and exercises to enhance their sensual/sexual relationship. Method: In the current study, the effectiveness of adding two booster sessions with each couple individually 1 and 3 months after the weekend training to the program was investigated. n = 62 couples were recruited by newspaper announcements. Results: At postassessment, couples showed more positive and less negative verbal and nonverbal communication behaviors during a conflict discussion task than at preassessment, thus replicating the previous findings. At the 1-year follow-up, couples with booster sessions reported significant higher marital satisfaction ratings and fewer problem areas than couples receiving the weekend program only. Discussion: Booster sessions seem to be effective in enhancing the long-term effectiveness of preventive interventions.