Comparison of reciprocity and discussion-type counseling for marital problems

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Abstract
Reciprocity counseling had previously been found to increase reported marital happiness in a study using a within-subject design. Fifty-five couples served in the present study using a between-subjects design, additional response measures, and additional positive communication training. The reciprocity counseling provided behavioral contracting, communication training and instruction in mutual reinforcement, whereas the control procedure encouraged discussion of the problems. The reciprocity counseling produced significantly more improvement than the discussion-type counseling for the three marital adjustment measures after four sessions. The improvement was maintained during the 24 months of follow-up.