The Role of Mindfulness and Interpersonal Forgiveness in Predicting Marital Quality of Life Among University Students

Abstract

Background: Understanding the roles of mindfulness and interpersonal forgiveness is crucial for identifying psychological and relational factors that enhance marital quality of life among university students facing unique stressors in early marriage. Objectives: The present study aimed to examine the predictive roles of mindfulness and interpersonal forgiveness on marital quality of life among university students. Methods: Using a descriptive-correlational design, the study included a sample size of 259 married female students from Islamic Azad University of Shiraz, recruited via convenience sampling in 2024. Data were collected using the Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale (RDAS), Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), and Interpersonal Forgiveness Measurement Questionnaire (IFMQ). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and stepwise regression in SPSS version 26, with a significance level of P < 0.01. Results: Positive correlations were found between mindfulness (r = 0.39) and interpersonal forgiveness (r = 0.60) with marital quality of life (P < 0.01). Together, these variables explained 42% of the variance in marital quality of life, with interpersonal forgiveness showing a stronger predictive effect. Conclusions: Mindfulness and interpersonal forgiveness significantly predict marital quality of life among married female university students, with forgiveness being a key factor. These findings support targeted interventions to enhance marital satisfaction in this population.