The Effect of Communication on Couples' Relationship and Happiness

This study examined relationships between married couples and couples’ communication patterns and theories on interpersonal communication. One hundred seventy-eight students from Washington, DC, metropolitan campuses of Strayer University participated in the study. Couples Pre-Counseling Inventory, a validated instrument, was used to examine the participants’ communication patterns; results were analyzed using SPSS. Variables studied were demographic data, communication patterns, happiness, satisfaction in the couple relationship, and several indices of personal life. Significant differences were found linking communication patterns to general and specific happiness; to satisfaction with the marital relationship; and to management of personal life. In addition, the study revealed significant differences between men and women in the sample, with women less satisfied than men on several variables. The findings thus indicate that the variables studied are related, in a complex manner, to the nature and quality of communication as a factor in many aspects of marriage and family life. The study open the door for future research considering other variables, such as ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic status.