Structural model for predicting marital satisfaction in young couples based on behavioral activation/ inhibition systems; the mediating role of attachment styles

Marital satisfaction serves as a fundamental predictor of stability and well-being within individuals' lives and families.

This study aims to develop a structural model that predicts marital satisfaction among young couples by examining the interplay between behavioral activation/inhibition systems and attachment styles.

The current study was a description of structural equations. A sample of 370 young couples in Tehran during the year 2021 was selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected through demographic questionnaires, Enrich's Marital Satisfaction Questionnaire (1998), the Behavioral Activation/ Inhibition Scale (1994), and the Adult Attachment Scale (2015). Path analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25 and LISREL version 8.8 for data analysis.

The results of the path analysis revealed several significant findings. Firstly, the inhibition system demonstrated a direct negative impact on marital satisfaction (ß=-0.16, P<0.05), along with ambivalent insecure attachment (ß=-0.42, P<0.01) and avoidant insecure attachment (ß=-0.19, P<0.05). Conversely, secure attachment displayed a direct and positive effect on marital satisfaction (ß=0.26, P<0.01). Furthermore, the inhibition system exhibited a direct and positive influence on avoidant insecure attachment (ß=0.18, P<0.01) and ambivalent insecure attachment (ß=0.19, P<0.01). Additionally, the activation system had a direct positive effect on secure attachment (ß=0.28, P<0.05) but a direct negative effect on avoidant attachment (ß=-0.30, P<0.01).

The results of the study underscore the direct predictive role of the activation/inhibition system in marital satisfaction, with attachment styles playing an indirect role. Therefore, therapists should consider these variables to enhance satisfaction levels in couples.