Investigating Views on Increasing Premarital Relationship Development Programs

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the perspectives of students enrolled in the Premarital Counseling course regarding the expansion of premarital relationship development programs. Employing a focus group interview as a qualitative research method, data collection utilized a semi-structured interview form with two questions. The study comprised 25 undergraduate students in the Guidance and Psychological Counseling Program. Analyzing the data through content analysis revealed two primary themes: alternative strategies to increase the number of premarital relationship development programs and participant incentives, aligning with the study's objectives. Sub-themes under these themes were also identified. The research findings are anticipated to guide future developmental studies aimed at enhancing both the quantity and quality of premarital relationship development programs in Turkey, encouraging broader participation in these initiatives. Participants mentioned acquiring knowledge and awareness about existing programs through the Premarital Counseling course. To expand this impact, advocating for the widespread inclusion of Premarital Psychological Counseling courses in Psychological Counseling and Guidance undergraduate programs is recommended. Furthermore, as suggested by participants, informing university students in other programs and departments about premarital relationship training could be achieved through diverse elective courses.

Keywords

• Premarital counseling
• relationship development programs
• content analysis

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