Predicting Marital Identity Fusion Based on Spiritual Closeness and Life Goals Alignment

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the predictive roles of spiritual closeness and life goals alignment in marital identity fusion among married individuals in Egypt. A correlational descriptive design was employed with a sample of 400 married participants selected based on the Morgan and Krejcie sampling table. Standardized instruments were used to measure marital identity fusion, spiritual closeness, and life goals alignment. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression via SPSS version 27. All assumptions of normality, linearity, multicollinearity, and homoscedasticity were tested and met prior to conducting inferential analyses. Pearson correlation analysis showed that marital identity fusion was positively and significantly correlated with both spiritual closeness (r = .64, p < .001) and life goals alignment (r = .59, p < .001). The multiple regression model was statistically significant, F(2, 397) = 182.71, p < .001, explaining 48% of the variance in marital identity fusion (R² = .48). Both spiritual closeness (β = .44, t = 7.83, p < .001) and life goals alignment (β = .38, t = 7.14, p < .001) were significant predictors, indicating that higher levels of these relational dimensions are associated with stronger psychological identity integration between spouses. The findings underscore the importance of spiritual closeness and life goals alignment in fostering marital identity fusion. These variables contribute significantly and independently to the psychological merging of partners in marital relationships. The results highlight the value of integrating spiritual and aspirational congruence into marital counseling and educational interventions to enhance marital cohesion and stability.