An Interpretive Understanding of Newlyweds' Perceptions of Their Premarital Instruction Experience
Date of Graduation
Summer 1999
Degree
Master of Arts in Communication
Department
Communication
Committee Chair
Isabelle Bauman
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of newlywed couples' perceptions of their premarital instruction experience. The sample included six couples from a large Baptist church participating in three sets of data collection: in-depth interviews, journal entries, and open-ended follow-up questionnaires. Three themes emerged: instruction, trust, and time. First, some couples were surprised to find an emphasis on instruction rather than counseling. However, the couples learned important lessons on communicating with their spouses that were best supported with the scripture examined during the premarital instruction sessions. Secondly, trust was essential in order for couples to explore various relationship issues. Finally, more time was needed for couples to develop a trusting relationship with their mentoring couple in order to probe deeper into the premarital couples' relationships. Future research should include follow-up studies to determine the long-term results of premarital instruction.
Subject Categories
Communication
Copyright
© Alicia Lynn Alexander
Recommended Citation
Alexander, Alicia Lynn, "An Interpretive Understanding of Newlyweds' Perceptions of Their Premarital Instruction Experience" (1999). MSU Graduate Theses. 225.
https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/225
Dissertation/Thesis
