A Grounded-Theory Study of the Underlying Factors of Couple Burnout

The present research aimed to investigate the underlying factors of couple burnout in the socio-cultural context of Karaj City. The qualitative study employed grounded theory method. Hence, the required data were collected using purposive sampling and semi-structured interview that continued until the theoretical saturation and the selection of 17 individuals. To achieve the factors, data analysis was carried out using the techniques provided by Strauss and Corbin, which included coding the concepts and shaping a theory. Open coding of the obtained data led to the identification 247 constructed codes, 30 concepts, 9 sub-categories and 3 main categories including individual, marital and contextual factors. External stressful factors and stressful experiences were subjected to intervening conditions. Incompatible personality features is the casual condition for couple burnout. The decrease of intimacy is considered as the central factor while lack of passion and interest, lack of caring behaviors, negative interaction, ineffective cognition, lack of personal and couple growth and lack of positive emotions are among the casual conditions for couple burnout