Pathology of Couples and In-law Family Interactions: A Qualitative Study

Introduction: The aim of this study was to explore the pathologies of interaction between couples and the in-law family. Method: This was a qualitative study and included ۱۴ women and ۱۳ men selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interview and analyzed using conventional content analysis strategy. Results: Interactional pathologies between couples and the in-law family were wrong boundary, differences, dependence, expectations, uneven distribution of power, rejection of bride/groom, and unpleasant manners. Also emotional, cognitive and behavioral results of interactional pathologies between couples and their in-law family could affect the relationship between couples and their in-laws, the couple’s relationship with each other, and the personal life of each couple, and cause physical and mental disorders in couples. Conclusion: Improving couples and family relations can help to stabilize the relationship between the couple and their in-law family, and increase marital satisfaction and promote the health of the community.

Keywords:

Interactional pathologies , Couples , In-law family