Dismantling study of prevention and relationship education program: the effects of a structured communication intervention.

Couples Relationship Education (CRE) programs have been shown to improve many facets of relationship functioning; however, less is known about the specific effects of various components of CRE programs. The current study examined two versions of the Prevention and Relationship Education Program (PREP), one where a structured communication intervention was taught and one where it was not. Outcome variables included couples' communication behaviors, communication patterns, and overall relationship adjustment. Twenty-six couples (52 participants) completed a 4-week, 12-hr PREP workshop. Generally, the couples reported low to moderate relationship distress. Study measures were completed preintervention, 4-6 weeks post, and 6 months post. Couples in the structured communication condition reported more positive and fewer negative communication behaviors at 6-month follow up and they reported faster gains in positive communication behaviors compared with the no structured communication group. Both groups reported decreased negative communication patterns and no change in relationship adjustment; these changes were statistically similar for both groups. Implications for couples' communications and relationship education programs are discussed.