The Role of Love and Identity Styles in the Prediction of Marital Satisfaction

Marital satisfaction is one of the most important indicators of life satisfaction in couples, and a higher level of marital satisfaction is related to a better family functioning. Therefore, the goal of this study was to predict marital satisfaction in women based on their identity and love styles. The method of research was correlational. The statistical population included all women working as a teacher in Tehran schools. Based on the Cochran’s formula and using a cluster sampling method, a total of 320 individuals working in the districts 1, 7, 11, and 13 of Tehran were selected as the study sample. The study data were collected using the Identity Style Inventory (ISI), the Sternberg's Love Scale, and the Marital Satisfaction Inventory (MSI). Pearson correlation coefficient and linear regression analysis were used to analyze the data. The data analyses indicated a positive and significant (0/001>P) relationship of identity commitment and commitment love style with marital satisfaction, and that these variables could significantly predict marital satisfaction. In addition, diffuse-avoidant identity style negatively predicted marital satisfaction. It can be concluded that identity integration and commitment love style in women significantly affects their marital satisfaction. Therefore, more attention should be placed on these variables in family enrichment programs and couples therapy sessions.