Positive psychology intervention for couples: A pilot study

In this randomized study, a multicomponent, theory-driven, autonomous self-help positive psychology intervention (PPI) for couples was examined. This intervention was not designed for distressed couples but rather to address autonomous couples with a good initial level of functioning who, nonetheless, wished to improve it. The objective was to assess the efficacy of the PPI on satisfaction with life, affective life, communication patterns, and dyadic adjustment in each member of the dyad. The 4-week PPI encompassed dyadic and individual daily activities. Thirty-eight couples were assigned to an intervention group (n = 20 couples) or a waiting list control (WLC) group (n = 18 couples). Assessments were conducted prior to and after the PPI, with an immediate post-test and a follow-up. Ninety-two percent of the PPI was completed by the participants. Linear mixed models revealed improvements in positive emotions, communication patterns of mutuality, and dyadic adjustment from the pretest to the immediate post-test in the intervention group compared with the WLC group. Effects of dyadic adjustment were maintained from pretest to 1-month follow-up in the intervention group. This pilot study suggests that the realization of intentional dyadic activities presents an interesting approach to contribute to individual positive emotions and dyadic functioning.