Multimethod analysis of social reinforcement exchange between maritally distressed and nondistressed spouse and stranger dyads.

Abstract

Based on a social learning formulation of marital interaction, this study investigated the positive and negative social reinforcement behaviors exchanged within distressed marital, nondistressed marital, and stranger dyads. Behavioral data gathered from home and laboratory interactions were used to study distressed and nondistressed marital interaction. In the laboratory, a repeated measurements design facilitated comparisons of marital and stranger interactions. Results from the natural environment indicated that distressed couples, relative to nondistressed, emitted fewer pleases and more displeases, engaged in more conflicts and fewer recreational activities together. Laboratory data from a behavioral coding system also indicated that distressed couples engaged in fewer positives and more negatives during casual conversation and problem solving than did nondistressed couples. Both distressed and nondistressed married dyads were more negative and less positive than stranger dyads. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.In spite of the ubiquity of marital relationships there have been relatively few empirical studies of marital interaction (cf. Olson, 1970). Those behavioral approaches to marital interaction which have recently been reported focus primarily on intervention strategies (e.g.

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