Identity Development, Differentiation, Personal Authority, and Degree of Religiosity as Predictors of Interfaith Marital Satisfaction

Abstract

This study investigated four predictors of interfaith marital satisfaction: identity status, differentiation, personal authority, and religiosity. A questionnaire was given to 84 interfaith married individuals assessing these four predictors plus marital satisfaction. Multiple regression analysis found that individuals with an achieved identity reported more marital satisfaction and individuals with a foreclosed identity reported less marital satisfaction. Differentiation also predicted increased marital satisfaction, and personal authority predicted decreased marital satisfaction. This study provides useful information for therapists during premarital therapy because it allows clients to discuss their viewpoints, which may decrease the likelihood of divorce and increase marital satisfaction.