The Effect of an Educational Intervention Based on the McMaster Model on Family Functioning in Infertile Couples

Abstract

Background: Infertility is a major medical concern affecting multiple dimensions of psychosocial and relational functioning. Studies have shown that family functioning is lower among infertile couples. Objectives: This study evaluated the effectiveness of an educational intervention based on the McMaster Model of Family Functioning in improving family functioning among infertile couples attending an infertility clinic in Kermanshah, Iran. Methods: A quasi-experimental study with a pretest–posttest design and random group allocation was conducted among infertile couples who visited the Motazedi Educational and Therapeutic Center in Kermanshah in 2017. Using convenience sampling, 56 couples were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups. In addition to receiving routine therapeutic services, the intervention group attended four weekly educational sessions based on the domains of the McMaster Model. Family functioning and its subdomains were assessed using the validated Family Assessment Device (FAD) before the intervention and 4 weeks after the final session. Data were analyzed using independent t tests, chi-square tests, Fisher exact test, and analysis of covariance. Results: Twenty-three couples in each group completed the study. The mean age of women was 31.21 ± 5.73 years in the intervention group and 33.73 ± 5.50 years in the control group. For men, the mean ages were 34.30 ± 5.80 years and 37.30 ± 6.50 years, respectively. The two groups were comparable at baseline with respect to demographic, fertility, and family functioning variables (all P > 0.05). After the intervention, the intervention group showed significant improvements in overall family functioning and in five of the seven FAD subdomains (problem-solving, communication, roles, behavioral control, and general functioning) compared with baseline and the control group. However, no significant changes were observed in affective responsiveness or affective involvement (P > 0.05). Conclusions: The four-session educational program based on the McMaster Model significantly improved family functioning among infertile couples. These findings support the implementation of this program in infertility treatment centers as a cost-effective and accessible strategy to promote family health and well-being in this vulnerable population.