Semester of Graduation
Spring 2021
Degree
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Child and Family Studies
Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
This mixed-methods study examined marital satisfaction among five (n = 10) heterosexual, African American married couples. In particular, this study examined how acknowledging a partner’s love language (Chapman, 1995) can affect these couples’ level of marital satisfaction. The participants were native to the South and ranged from 26-55 years of age. Quantitative and qualitative analysis of the data revealed couples were satisfied with their marriages. Although only marginally significant, the findings also revealed acknowledging a spouse’s love language was positively related to higher levels of marital satisfaction. Seven themes emerged throughout the interviews, namely communication; financial stability; understand a spouse’s needs; spirituality and religion; outside influences; society’s view of Black marriages; and room for growth and improvement. In general, the findings reveal that in spite of difficulties, strong African American marriages exist.
Recommended Citation
Lee, Freddricka C., "Five Love Languages: Assessment of Marital Satisfaction in African American Couples" (2021). LSU Master's Theses. 5322.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_theses/5322
Committee Chair
Chaney, Cassandra
DOI
10.31390/gradschool_theses.5322
Included in
African American Studies Commons, Family, Life Course, and Society Commons, Interpersonal and Small Group Communication Commons, Marriage and Family Therapy and Counseling Commons, Race and Ethnicity Commons, Social Work Commons