Prediction of Marital Conflicts Based on a Systems Approach with the Mediating Role of Attachment Styles

Abstract

Background: Attachment style is a major variable in the creation and description of marital problems and has received greater attention in recent years. The traits of secure attachment include constructive emotional interactions and intimate marital relationships. The present study aimed to predict marital conflicts using a problem-centered systems approach with the mediating role of attachment styles among conflicting couples. Methods: In this descriptive correlational study, the statistical population in this study was the total number of conflicted couples in Tehran and Qom in 2020. The sample included 540 men and women with marital conflict selected by convenience sampling. The research instruments included the Experience in Close Relationship Scale (ECR-S), the Marital Conflict Questionnaire (MCQ), and the Family Assessment Device (FAD). Data were analyzed by Pearson correlation method and structural equation modeling using SPSS version 22.0 and LISREL version 8.0 software. Results: The assessment of the hypothetical model of the research indicated that it was a good fit with the measurement model (CFI>0.90; IFI>0.90; RMSE>0.08). The results demonstrated that the components of the systems approach with the mediating role of attachment styles could explain marital conflicts (P<0.001). These components had an indirect relationship with marital conflicts through attachment styles (β= -0.27, P= 0.01). Conclusion: Based on the results, the proposed model had a good fit. Overall, the findings verified the marital conflict model based on a systemic approach mediated by attachment styles