Effectiveness of Training of Relationship Enhancement on Marital Intimacy of Couples with Autistic Children

Elham Abbaspour; Sabah Vatani; Hengameh  Safargholi; Soror  Madhi; Hosein  Hoseinnezhad

Authors

Elham Abbaspour MA in Counseling, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Tehran, Iran, elham.abbaspour69@gmail.com Author http://orcid.org/003194753284600528
Sabah Vatani PhD Candidate in Exceptional Child Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran Author http://orcid.org/003194753284600529
Hengameh Safargholi MA of Clinical Psychology, Islamic Azad University, Roodehen Branch, Tehran, Iran Author http://orcid.org/003194753284600530
Soror Madhi PhD Candidate in Exceptional Child Psychology, University of Tehran, Kish Campus Branch, Tehran, Iran Author http://orcid.org/003194753284600531
Hosein Hoseinnezhad MA of Family Counseling, University of Rehabilitation Sciences and Social Health, Tehran, Iran Author http://orcid.org/003194753284600532

Keywords:

Relationship Improvement, Marital Intimacy, Autism Disorder

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder pose a serious problem for family members. Therefore, interventions that help to improve this situation are necessary. The aim of this study has been to determine the effectiveness of relationship improvement education on marital intimacy of couples with children with autism spectrum disorder. Method: The research is quasi-experimental with pre-test-post-test design with control group. 28 couples were selected by available sampling method from couples with children with autism spectrum disorder in Sanandah city in 1400 (2021), and randomly assigned to the experimental and control groups. The relationship improvement training program was implemented in 8 sessions on the experimental group while the control group did not receive any intervention. Walker Marital Intimacy Questionnaire was used to collect data. Results: The results of univariate analysis of covariance showed that relationship improvement training is effective on marital intimacy of couples with children with autism spectrum disorder. Conclusion: Relationship improvement training leads to better family relationships.