Exploration of Couple Relationship Retention Strategies in Employed Women: Qualitative Content Analysis

employed women need strategies to maintain their marital relationship due to their extensive responsibilities in the workplace and family. This study was a qualitative study using content analysis in which data were collected using purposive sampling and in-depth semi-structured individual interviews with eight women working in government departments and non -governmental centers in Ilam City, it was collected in 1400. The duration of the interview sessions ranged from 45 to 60 minutes, and the data reached theoretical saturation point after 8 interviews. Data analysis was carried out through conventional content analysis; after the transcription of recorded interviews on paper and immersion in the data, the initial codes were extracted. To determine the main categories, initial codes were reviewed and classified in several steps. The results of the text of interviews resulted in identifying three main themes including 'intra individual and cognitive strategies', 'interpersonal and behavioral strategies' and 'emotional strategies. The results of this study can pave the way for counselors and family therapists in the field of marital education and premarital counseling. Also working women who have a work family conflict or want to maintain and improve their marital relationship can also benefit from these findings.