The Role of Alexithymia and Dysfunctional Reactions in Predicting Marital Intimacy

Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationship between alexithymia and dysfunctional reactions with marital intimacy among married men and women in Mashhad City, Iran. Methods: The data collection tools in this study included the Persian version of the Toronto alexithymia scale-20 (2008), the dysfunctional attitude scale (Weissman and Beck 1978), and the intimacy scale (Walker and Thompson, 1983). The statistical population included all married men and women who lived in Mashhad City, Iran, in the second half of 2019. The sample of this study consisted of 171 married individuals (100 women and 71 men) who were selected via the convenience sampling method. Results: The results indicated a negative and significant relationship between marital intimacy and alexithymia (P < 0.05, β = -25.258) and dysfunctional reactions (P < 0.01, β= -0.0318). Alexithymia accounted for about 6% and dysfunctional reactions for about 10% of the dispersion of marital intimacy. Also, a positive and significant correlation existed between alexithymia and dysfunctional reactions (P < 0.01, r = 0.553) among married couples. In addition, alexithymia and dysfunctional reactions could be a predictor of marital intimacy. Conclusion: Paying attention to variables, such as alexithymia and dysfunctional reactions can ensure marital intimacy. The results of this study have implications for improving marital intimacy and its positive outcomes in families.