The Role of Perspective-Taking Training on Reducing Power Struggles and Increasing Relational Empathy

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a structured perspective-taking training program in reducing power struggles and enhancing relational empathy among romantic partners. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 30 participants (15 couples) recruited from Lima, Peru, who were randomly assigned to either an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group participated in ten weekly 90-minute sessions of perspective-taking training, while the control group received no treatment. Standardized self-report measures were used to assess power struggles and relational empathy at pretest, posttest, and a five-month follow-up. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and Bonferroni post-hoc tests with SPSS-27, and all assumptions for inferential testing were confirmed. Significant time × group interaction effects were observed for both power struggles (F(2, 54) = 26.17, p < .001, η² = .503) and relational empathy (F(2, 54) = 30.23, p < .001, η² = .529). Participants in the intervention group demonstrated a significant reduction in power struggles from pretest to posttest (mean difference = 8.36, p < .001), with stable results at follow-up. Likewise, relational empathy significantly increased in the intervention group between pretest and posttest (mean difference = -10.76, p < .001) and remained consistent at the follow-up phase. The control group showed no significant changes over time for either variable. Perspective-taking training is an effective and sustainable intervention for reducing destructive conflict behaviors and fostering emotional understanding in intimate relationships. These findings support the integration of cognitive-affective empathy training into relational counseling and educational programs to improve long-term relationship quality.