Marital Resilience Perspective
Marital Resiliency Perspective
The Marital Resiliency Perspective (MRP) shifts the focus from simply preventing divorce to understanding how couples navigate and overcome challenges within their marriage. It acknowledges conflict is inevitable, and that successful marriages aren’t defined by its absence, but by how couples manage it. Unlike theories emphasizing "ideal" relationships, MRP views resilience as a dynamic process built on strengths.
Key Ideas
A central concept of MRP is “restructuring.” This doesn't mean changing personalities, but rather altering interaction patterns that become problematic. Couples develop habitual ways of relating; some helpful, some harmful. MRP emphasizes identifying and shifting those patterns. Another key idea is meaning-making, or how couples frame challenges. Viewing difficulties as opportunities for growth, rather than threats, boosts resilience.
Applications
MRP is used in couples therapy, focusing on skill-building in communication, conflict resolution, and shared meaning-making. Beyond therapy, it’s applicable to preventative education programs. Framing marital stress as a manageable challenge, and equipping couples with resources, can improve overall well-being and productivity.