Effectiveness of Power Dynamics Awareness Training (PDAT) on Improving Marital Equality and Conflict Resolution Married Couples

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Power Dynamics Awareness Training (PDAT) on improving marital equality and conflict resolution among married couples. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 30 participants (15 in the intervention group and 15 in the control group) recruited from Germany. The intervention consisted of six weekly 60–90-minute sessions focusing on recognizing power imbalances and enhancing constructive conflict resolution skills. Standardized instruments—the Marital Equality Scale and the Conflict Resolution Styles Inventory—were administered at three time points: pre-test, post-test, and five-month follow-up. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA with Bonferroni post-hoc tests via SPSS-27 to assess within- and between-group differences over time. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant time × group interaction effects for both marital equality (F(2, 54) = 29.07, p < .001, η² = .527) and conflict resolution (F(2, 54) = 32.12, p < .001, η² = .546), indicating greater improvements in the intervention group compared to the control group. Post-hoc comparisons showed significant gains in marital equality (MD = 13.76, p < .001) and conflict resolution (MD = 14.05, p < .001) from pre-test to post-test, with effects sustained at the five-month follow-up. No significant decline was observed between post-test and follow-up scores. The findings support the efficacy of Power Dynamics Awareness Training in fostering marital equality and enhancing conflict resolution capacities in couples. The structured intervention led to significant and lasting improvements, highlighting the importance of integrating power-awareness components into relational counseling and educational programs aimed at promoting equity and emotional resilience in intimate relationships.