A Structural Model of Marital Commitment Based on Psychological Flexibility Mediated by We-ness in Couples with Low Marital Adjustment
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Objective: This study aimed to develop and evaluate a structural model of marital commitment based on psychological flexibility, with we-ness mediating the relationship, in couples with low marital adjustment.
Methods and Materials: A descriptive–correlational design was employed, and structural equation modeling (SEM) was used for analysis. The statistical population consisted of married couples attending private counseling centers in Karaj, Iran, in 2024. Using convenience sampling, 300 couples (300 men and 300 women) participated. Data were collected using the Marital Adjustment Questionnaire, the Marital Commitment Questionnaire, the Psychological Flexibility Questionnaire, and the We-ness in Couple Relationship Questionnaire. Analyses were performed using SPSS and AMOS 26 to assess model fit and mediating effects.
Findings: Psychological flexibility had a significant direct effect on marital commitment (β = 0.32, p = 0.001) and on we-ness (β = 0.55, p = 0.001). We-ness directly affected marital commitment (β = 0.61, p = 0.001) and mediated the relationship between psychological flexibility and marital commitment (indirect effect β = 0.34, p = 0.001). Model fit indices indicated good fit (χ²/df = 2.10, RMSEA = 0.05, CFI = 0.94, GFI = 0.96).
Conclusion: Enhancing psychological flexibility may improve marital commitment in low-adjustment couples by strengthening we-ness. Interventions targeting flexibility and shared relational identity can promote marital stability and satisfaction.
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