Cognitive, Affective, and Behavioral Components of Marital Cohesion: A Multiple Case Study

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the cognitive, affective, and behavioral components that contribute to marital cohesion among Malaysian couples. Using a qualitative multiple case study design, this research involved 23 participants (12 married couples and one widowed individual) residing in Malaysia. Participants were selected through purposive sampling based on minimum criteria of five years of marital experience. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analyzed through thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s six-phase framework. NVivo 12 software was used to manage data coding. Theoretical saturation was achieved, and trustworthiness was enhanced through member checking, peer debriefing, and reflexive memoing. Three overarching domains of marital cohesion were identified: cognitive, affective, and behavioral. Cognitive cohesion included shared meaning of marriage, cognitive commitment, conflict attribution styles, trust in partner’s judgment, and rational decision-making. Affective cohesion encompassed emotional intimacy, love and affection, emotional support, forgiveness, emotional presence, and emotional boundary-setting. Behavioral cohesion involved shared daily routines, conflict management behaviors, expressions of care, sexual and physical intimacy, joint decision-making, role participation, and marital rituals. The findings revealed that these dimensions interact dynamically and are shaped by contextual, cultural, and relational factors. Participant narratives highlighted the compensatory roles among domains and the impact of digital behaviors, gender roles, and financial collaboration on cohesion. Marital cohesion is a multifaceted construct shaped by the interaction of cognitive beliefs, emotional dynamics, and behavioral practices. Effective marital functioning requires alignment across these domains, but cohesion can also be sustained through compensatory strengths in one area when others are lacking. The findings underscore the importance of culturally informed, multidimensional approaches in marital assessment and intervention.