A follow-up study of a marriage preparation programme

Abstract

This exploratory study followed up ten married couples who attended a voluntary six session psycho-educational Marriage Preparation Programme under the auspices of the Jewish Family and Community Council - Transvaal. A literature review on marriage preparation, evaluation and enrichment provided the framework for the study and interview schedule. The study aimed to confirm and/or modify the existing Marriage Preparation Programme and to explore marital adjustment in detail. The findings indicate : * Couples had positive recall of the programme. * Attending a Marriage Preparation Programme was not necessarily helpful but had a positive influence on couples' commitment. * Respondents experienced difficulties in loosening ties with their families. * The establishment of a family unit was central to marital adjustment. * Role allocation was influenced by role models in respondents' families of origin. * Dealing with socio-economic issues were exceptionally difficult. * Changing roles and expectations of parenthood affected respondents' style of parenting.