Couple Satisfaction and Symptom Distress: What to Look for When Forming an Alliance

Abstract

In this study, the relationship between dyadic adjustment ratings, individual symptom distress ratings and the therapeutic alliance for males and females was explored. Likewise, the interaction between individual symptom distress and dyadic adjustment predicting fourth session therapy alliance formation was analyzed. Sample data were collected from previous therapy clients at a marriage and family therapy training clinic at a southeastern university. Overall findings revealed the interaction of male symptom distress and dyadic adjustment ratings at intake, significantly and negatively predicted fourth session alliance ratings. Female (married and non-married) findings suggested a significant negative relationship between symptom distress ratings at intake and fourth session alliance.