Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
ORCID
0009-0006-7535-2619
Date of Graduation
5-15-2025
Semester of Graduation
Spring
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Department of Graduate Psychology
First Advisor
Stephanie Crockett
Second Advisor
Cara Meixner
Third Advisor
Debbie Sturm
Abstract
Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT) is a structured couples counseling approach designed to enhance relational satisfaction by fostering empathy, communication, and emotional attunement. Despite its widespread use, empirical research on IRT remains limited. This dissertation examines the effectiveness of IRT through three distinct manuscripts: a conceptual analysis of IRT’s application for parents of autistic children, a quantitative study assessing its impact on relationship satisfaction, and a qualitative study exploring critical incidents in therapy.
The quantitative study employed a single-subject research design in which monogamous couples participated in six weekly IRT sessions facilitated by a certified therapist. Relationship satisfaction was measured at each session using the Relationship Quality Index (RQI). Results indicated an overall increase in satisfaction, though variability was observed. Some participants exhibited significant fluctuations, while others maintained a more stable trajectory, suggesting differing responses to the intervention.
The qualitative study used the Enhanced Critical Incident Technique (ECIT) to analyze participants’ experiences. Findings highlighted key themes: the benefits of structured communication, the importance of emotional and physical connection, and the role of therapist guidance. Participants also identified areas for improvement, such as the need for greater customization and post-therapy support.
Findings suggest that IRT effectively enhances relationship satisfaction, particularly through structured dialogue techniques. However, therapy affects couples differently; some experience rapid improvements, while others may require extended support. Clinically, these results underscore the need for therapists to adapt IRT strategies to individual couple dynamics, ensuring that interventions are flexible and responsive to varying emotional needs.
Future research should focus on long-term studies to assess the durability of IRT’s effects and explore its effectiveness across diverse populations and relationship structures. Comparative studies evaluating IRT alongside other couples therapy approaches could further refine best practices. Additionally, exploring methods for extending therapy benefits—such as booster sessions or digital interventions—may help sustain long-term relationship improvements.
This dissertation contributes to the growing body of literature supporting IRT as a valuable therapeutic model while emphasizing the importance of individualized approaches and continued research on its long-term impact.
