Published September 30, 2025 | Version CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0
Journal article Open

Exploring the Influence of Appreciation and Effective Communication on Marital Happiness Among Working Childless Individuals

Creators

  • 1. PhD Scholar, Department of Psychology, Sharda School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh), India.

Contributors

  • 1. PhD Scholar, Department of Psychology, Sharda School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh), India.
  • 2. Department of Psychology, Sharda University, Sharda School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh), India.

Description

Abstract: Marital happiness reflects the individual’s subjective evaluation of one’s well-being or satisfaction within the context of the marriage relationship. Although having kids is often considered a factor in determining the happiness of married couples, the current research aims to explore the influence of appreciation and effective communication on the marital happiness of childless married individuals. This research paper investigated happiness among childless individuals and the role of gratitude and effective communication in cultivating happiness within their marital relationship. The paper also examined the role of relationship duration (years of marriage) on marital happiness. For this purpose, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 individuals who were childless. Through thematic analysis, six major themes and 11 sub-themes emerged. It was found that there are individual differences in showing appreciation; however, the subtle ways of demonstrating appreciation, as well as proficient communication from the other partner, shaped the overall happiness within the marital partnership. Despite the emotional and social problems faced by these individuals, the positive and constant support upheld their relationship in thick and thin. Variation was found in the expression of appreciation and communication among partners. By examining the lived experiences and perceptions of childless couples, this research highlights the importance of gratitude and effective communication in fostering long-term satisfaction. It would also provide practical strategies for cultivating thriving relationships in contemporary society, offering valuable insights into achieving happiness in relationships, regardless of whether one has children or not.

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Additional details

Identifiers

DOI
10.54105/ijssl.D1189.05010925
EISSN
2583-0643

Dates

Accepted
2025-09-15
Manuscript received on 27 May 2025 | First Revised Manuscript received on 07 June 2025 | Second Revised Manuscript received on 21 August 2025 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 September 2025 | Manuscript published on 30 September 2025.

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