Developing and Validating Educational Strategies for Couples to Enhance Family Bonds: A Qualitative Expert Analysis

Abstract

Background: In the Iranian-Islamic culture, the family is considered a valuable and important social unit. However, in recent years, developments in society have increased family breakdowns and diminished familial relationships. Therefore, designing a conceptual model and identifying effective educational components for couples is a dire need of Iranian society to strengthen families. Objectives: This study aimed to develop and validate educational strategies for couples to enhance family bonds through qualitative expert analysis. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted with an exploratory-descriptive approach, and the population included all university professors and experts on marriage and family. With purposive sampling, 32 experts in Yazd, Iran, were selected. The data were collected through semistructured interviews, recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using grounded theory and Strauss and Corbin's systematic approach. Results: The findings based on open coding of 124 statements revealed 14 concepts in 7 categories. By combining the categories, axial coding introduced 4 main components (couples' insight and awareness, communication and cultural literacy, mental and emotional health, and rational-emotional strategies). Selective coding, along with the graphic design of a paradigmatic framework, represented the final theory. Conclusions: Attention to these dimensions and components can provide a roadmap for assessing and resolving marital difficulties by marriage counselors and couples therapists.