An Interpretive Understanding of Newlyweds' Perceptions of Their Premarital Instruction Experience

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.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Arts in Communication

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Communication

Year

1999

Author dc:creator

• Alexander, Alicia Lynn

Contributors dc:contributor

• Isabelle Bauman

• Communication

Statement dc:rights

• © Alicia Lynn Alexander

Repository record dc:identifier

https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/225

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:bearworks.missouristate.edu:theses-1226