Comparison of the Effectiveness of Olson Circumplex Model-Based Couple Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on Sexual Dissatisfaction and Marital Inhibition among Couples with Marital Conflict

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Healthy marital relationships play a fundamental role in psychological well-being, quality of life, and family stability, while variables such as sexual dissatisfaction and marital inhibition may contribute to chronic conflicts, emotional exhaustion, and reduced intimacy between couples. The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Olson Circumplex Model-based couple therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on sexual dissatisfaction and marital inhibition among couples experiencing marital conflict.

Methodology: This study employed a quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and follow-up phases including two experimental groups and one control group. The statistical population consisted of couples with marital conflict who referred to counseling centers in Amol during the first quarter of 2024. A total of 48 participants (24 couples) were selected using convenience sampling and randomly assigned into three groups. The first experimental group received 10 sessions of Olson Circumplex Model-based couple therapy, while the second experimental group participated in 8 sessions of ACT-based couple therapy. The control group received no intervention during the study period. Research instruments included the Marital Conflict Questionnaire, Larson Sexual Dissatisfaction Questionnaire, and Marital Inhibition Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and multivariate covariance analysis.

Findings: The results demonstrated that both interventions significantly reduced sexual dissatisfaction and marital inhibition (P<0.001). The mean score of sexual dissatisfaction decreased from 32.07 in the pre-test to 20.12 in the post-test, while marital inhibition scores decreased from 34.45 to 25.87. Covariance analysis revealed significant differences between the groups in sexual dissatisfaction (F=18.14) and marital inhibition (F=6.36). Furthermore, LSD post-hoc analysis indicated significant differences between the two therapeutic approaches, with ACT demonstrating greater effectiveness in reducing emotional inhibition and improving emotional interaction patterns among couples.

Conclusion: The findings indicated that both therapeutic approaches were effective in improving marital relationship quality, reducing sexual dissatisfaction, and decreasing marital inhibition. However, ACT showed stronger effects on reducing emotional inhibition and enhancing emotional intimacy due to its emphasis on emotional acceptance, mindfulness, and psychological flexibility. In contrast, the Olson Circumplex Model improved marital cohesion and relational stability through restructuring communication patterns and balancing family roles. An integrative application of these two approaches may provide a more comprehensive intervention framework for couples experiencing marital conflict.