Marital Satisfaction Prediction Model Based on Behavioral Activation/Inhibition Systems: Investigating the Mediating Role of Mentalization

Marital satisfaction has been widely acknowledged as a crucial determinant of marriage stability. One key factor that impacts marital satisfaction is the type of behavioral activation and inhibition system present in an individual. Individual differences in the behavioral brain system play a significant role in how couples respond to interpersonal problems, resulting in distinct behavioral feedback. If utilized correctly, this system can positively impact the quality of a couple's relationship and promote family stability. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between behavioral activation/inhibition systems and marital satisfaction with the mediation of mentalization. The research was conducted using a correlation method, and the statistical population comprised married individuals residing in Tehran in 2021. Of these, a sample size of 370 was selected using a multi-stage cluster sampling method and administered a demographic questionnaire, the Enrich Marital Satisfaction Questionnaire, the Behavioral Activation and Inhibition Scale, and the mentalization Questionnaire. The results of the path analysis indicated that the behavioral inhibition system with the mediation of mentalization is effective in marital satisfaction, and the inhibition system has a negative and meaningful relationship with marital satisfaction and mentalization. On the other hand, mentalization had a direct, positive, and significant impact on marital satisfaction. Additionally, the activation system significantly impacted marital satisfaction with the mediation of mentalization. The activation system had a direct, positive, and significant impact on mentalization, but only a positive and direct relationship between the activation system and marital satisfaction could not be established. These findings suggest that the behavioral activation and inhibition system can predict marital satisfaction directly and indirectly through mentalization. Consequently, it is recommended that experts in the field of family examine these structures to promote marital satisfaction among couples.