CYCLE OF INQUIRY MULTIDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL

ABSTRACT

The study explored the experiences of 10 Christian married couples through qualitative interviews. The aim was to examine: (1) the dynamics and different challenges of Christian marital couples; (2) the influencing factors to the challenges; (3) the motivation of each spouse to resolve the marital challenge and seek help; (4) the internal and external resources utilized by the marital couple/s and how these resources helped them strengthen their marriages; and (5) the adjustments and changes marital couple/s must make to strengthen their marriages. Eight major themes were identified based on the narratives of the participants: Motivation to Get Married, Influence of the Family of Origin, Adverse Childhood Experiences, Challenges/Stress, Motivation to Restore Oneself and the Marriage, Faith and Christianity, the Marital Community, and Transformational Change. Results indicated that for all the participants, the couples’ family of origin and adverse childhood experiences are contributing factors to the marital stress. This study suggests that people have different motivations when deciding to get married and stay in the marriage despite the challenges faced. Spirituality—particularly Christian beliefs— and community support were identified as protective factors in marital strengthening and restoration. This study also shows that unless there is both internal and relational transformation, which is heavily influenced by faith, marital quality will not improve.