Intersection of Youth Marriage Perspectives and Reciprocal Emotional Sustainability in Turkey: Implications for the 2025 Year of the Family Campaign

Intersection of Youth Marriage Perspectives and Reciprocal Emotional Sustainability in Turkey: Implications for the 2025 Year of the Family Campaign | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Article Intersection of Youth Marriage Perspectives and Reciprocal Emotional Sustainability in Turkey: Implications for the 2025 Year of the Family Campaign MUSTAFA TEKKE This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-7077016/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Under Review Version 1 posted 7 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract This study develops a mid-range grounded theory exploring the dynamics of meaningful marriage among young Turkish adults, positioning “reciprocal emotional sustainability (RES)” as a central mechanism for marital resilience and growth. Drawing on 482 open-ended narratives, the analysis identifies foundational values (trust, mutual respect, enduring love) that energize a self-reinforcing cycle of empathic support and equitable exchange. The effectiveness of this dynamic is moderated by partners’ emotion-regulation skills and their joint communication ecology, with failures leading to emotional attenuation and relational disengagement. Integrating attachment, self-determination, and social exchange theories, the emergent model elucidates how autonomy support, equitable reciprocity, and secure relatedness foster individual and relational flourishing within a culturally specific context that emphasizes ancestral succession and family continuity. Practical implications include the prioritization of conflict-cooling strategies, autonomy-supportive behaviors, and rapid dynamic restoration in marital education and therapy. These findings hold significant relevance for national initiatives such as Turkey's “2025 Year of the Family Campaign”, offering empirical insights to inform and optimize governmental efforts aimed at strengthening family well-being through comprehensive facilities and support mechanisms. Limitations, including a female-skewed online sample, suggest directions for future dyadic and longitudinal research across more diverse populations. Social science/Environmental studies Humanities/Philosophy Biological sciences/Psychology Social science/Psychology Social science/Sociology meaningful marriage reciprocal emotional sustainability attachment theory self-determination theory social exchange theory Introduction Marriage remains one of the most consequential and enduring social institutions, providing a nexus for psychological well-being, social stability, and personal fulfillment (Beach et al., 1990 ). Contemporary scholarship increasingly recognizes that beyond legal or economic arrangements, the personality traits and interpersonal dynamics of partners significantly influence marital satisfaction and stability within enduring relationships (Claxton et al., 2012 ). Across diverse theoretical perspectives, meaningful marriages consistently exhibit deep emotional intimacy, mutual respect, shared values, effective communication, and a sustained commitment to individual and relational growth (Afifi et al., 2024 ; Chapman, 1992 ; Gottman & Levenson, 1992 ; Sternberg, 1988 ). In Turkey, the significance of the family unit is underscored by recent governmental initiatives, most notably President Erdoğan’s declaration of 2025 as the “Year of the Family” (Ministry of Family and Social Services, 2025 ). This comprehensive campaign aims to bolster family well-being through a range of new facilities, including interest-free loans for newlyweds, enhanced birth assistance, broad counseling services, housing aid, and measures to improve women's work-life balance (Ministry of Family and Social Services, 2025 ). This study, by providing empirical insights into the psychological competencies and relational dynamics deemed essential by young Turkish adults, offers a timely and critical framework for informing and optimizing the programmatic offerings of such a significant national endeavor. Meaningful Marriage Claxton and DeLongis ( 2012 ) describe marriage as an interconnected system where personality traits within a couple influence marital satisfaction. This holistic view aligns with empirical findings indicating that partners who cultivate emotional closeness, articulate shared life goals, and support one another’s personal development report the highest levels of satisfaction and resilience (Chapman, 1992 ; Gottman & Levenson, 1992 ). Three complementary theories elucidate how marriages acquire and maintain meaning: Attachment theory. Early relational experiences shape adult attachment styles that influence marital attitudes, intimacy, and stability (Andersen & Chen, 2002 ; Power, 2018 ). Securely attached spouses tend to display openness, empathy, and an enhanced capacity to both provide and receive support, whereas insecure patterns can undermine trust and communication (Leak & Cooney, 2001 ; Power, 2020 ). Self-determination theory (SDT). SDT posits that autonomy, competence, and relatedness are basic psychological needs whose fulfillment predicts both individual and relational flourishing. When partners experience “mutuality of autonomy support,” they engage in more constructive maintenance behaviors and report stronger relationship satisfaction (Knee et al., 2013 ; Patrick et al., 2007 ). Social exchange theory. Although sometimes criticized for its transactional leanings, social exchange theory underscores how perceptions of equitable costs and benefits guide relational commitment (Homans, 1958 ; Thibaut & Kelley, 1959 ). Meaningful marriages extend beyond simple utility calculations by embedding these exchanges within deeper values of love, loyalty, and shared purpose (Clark & Mills, 1979). Communication operates as the central conduit through which these psychological mechanisms manifest. The Gottman “sound relationship house” model demonstrates that couples who sustain a ratio of at least five positive to one negative interaction during conflict show markedly lower divorce rates (Gottman & Levenson, 1992 ). Similarly, intimacy grows when self-disclosure is met with empathic responsiveness, reinforcing emotional safety and closeness (Laurenceau et al., 2005 ; Yoo et al., 2014 ). Complementing these dynamics, Chapman’s ( 1992 ) “five love languages” framework illustrates how attunement to a partner’s preferred modes of affection strengthens relational bonds. Synthesizing attachment, motivation, and exchange approaches reveals that meaningful marriages involve partners who freely choose to invest in each other’s well-being, cultivate secure emotional bonds, and negotiate equitable exchanges that respect individual autonomy. Protective factors such as spirituality (Amato et al., 2003 ; Marks, 2005 ), effective conflict resolution (Gottman, 1994 ), and shared existential meaning (Culliford, 2021 ; Wong & Wong, 2018 ) further buffer couples against stress and promote long-term stability. Collectively, the psychological and relational foundations of meaningful marriage are multidimensional, intertwining secure attachment (as posited by attachment theory), intrinsic motivation and need fulfillment (central to self-determination theory), equitable exchange (from social exchange theory), and values-based commitment (Fowers, 1998 ). This study specifically delves into these intertwined processes among young Turkish young adults, offering a robust platform for scholars, practitioners, and couples themselves to foster relationships that not only endure but also nourish individual and shared aspirations across the lifespan. Crucially, the insights gleaned from this research demonstrate a significant consistency with the objectives of Turkey's “2025 Year of the Family Campaign”, providing empirical grounding for national efforts aimed at strengthening family well-being. 2025 Year of the Family Campaign As Turkey advances toward its designated “2025 Year of the Family,” family structures and marital dynamics are undergoing notable shifts shaped by the intersection of deeply embedded cultural traditions and accelerating modern influences. Historically, the Turkish family has been grounded in patriarchal norms and extended kinship arrangements, with authority concentrated in men and domestic responsibilities largely delegated to women (Nauck & Klaus, 2005 ; Sunar & Fisek, 2005; Tekçe, 2004). Religious and cultural frameworks have reinforced these patterns, providing a stable set of expectations regarding the distribution of marital roles. In recent decades, the combined effects of urbanization, modernization, and evolving policy frameworks have progressively altered these longstanding arrangements. Expanding educational access, increased female participation in the labor force, and legal provisions supporting gender equality have created conditions for more egalitarian approaches to marriage (Engin et al., 2020 ; Kavas & Thornton, 2013 ). Women—particularly those in middle adulthood—are increasingly renegotiating their positions within the household, balancing traditional expectations with aspirations for greater relational equity (Ataca & Sunar, 1999 ; Ustunel et al., 2023 ). In parallel, the role of fathers is shifting toward greater emotional engagement and active involvement in child-rearing, although patriarchal authority continues to exert a strong influence (Metindogan, 2015 ; Park & Banchefsky, 2018 ). Despite formal legislative commitments to gender equality, everyday practices reveal a persistent gap between statutory rights and prevailing cultural norms. The concept of “judicial navigation,” in which families reconcile legal provisions with entrenched social expectations, reflects the complexities involved in translating policy into consistent lived realities (Çarkoğlu & Kafescioğlu, 2013 ; Örücü, 2008 ). Within this changing environment, the emotional and psychological aspects of family life are increasingly recognized as critical for relationship quality. Parenting warmth, emotional intelligence, and constructive conflict resolution have been identified as significant contributors to marital satisfaction (Duru, 2025 ). The broader kinship network, particularly grandparents, continues to serve as an important source of emotional stability and practical support, helping to buffer marital stress (Bokhan et al., 2025 ). Professional family guidance and counseling services, when approached collaboratively by both spouses, also enhance family cohesion (Moazami Goudarzi et al., 2025 ). Urbanization and exposure to global norms of gender equality are further reshaping family responsibilities among younger couples, narrowing the gender gap in household and caregiving tasks (Engin et al., 2020 ; Kavas & Thornton, 2013 ). Comparative research, including studies of Syrian refugee communities in Turkey, shows that while traditional gender norms remain culturally significant, younger cohorts—particularly in urban and transnational settings—are modifying these frameworks in response to shifting socio‑economic conditions, displacement, and evolving intergenerational dynamics, reflecting a gradual move toward more egalitarian expectations. (Foster et al., 2024 ). The configuration of the family in Turkey in 2025 thus embodies a dynamic balance of tradition, modernity, and policy, with marital and familial roles evolving at the intersection of these complex influences. Alongside changes in marital roles, economic realities continue to shape family configurations and roles in Turkey. The rising costs of urban living and housing shortages have resulted in prolonged co-residence with extended family and delayed marriage or childbearing, especially among younger adults (Engin et al., 2020 ). These economic pressures require families to renegotiate responsibilities related to caregiving, financial contribution, and autonomy. Notably, gender disparities persist in labor market participation and income levels, which influence the division of domestic labor and caregiving roles (Kavas & Thornton, 2013 ). Policy efforts focused on expanding childcare support and promoting work-life balance are increasingly critical to support families navigating these challenges (Duru, 2025 ). Psychological well-being within the family unit has gained heightened attention as a cornerstone of marital and familial stability. Emotional labor shared between spouses—including empathy, emotional regulation, and conflict management—has been shown to improve relationship satisfaction and resilience (Metindogan, 2015 ; Park & Banchefsky, 2018 ). The normalization of psychological counseling and mental health services within family contexts reflects a broader cultural shift toward valuing emotional health and preventive care (Moazami Goudarzi et al., 2025 ). This increasing openness is essential to strengthening family cohesion as Turkey approaches its 2025 goals for family welfare and social development. Method Research design Because the aim was to build theory “from the ground up” rather than test pre-existing hypotheses, the study was situated in a constructivist grounded-theory framework (Charmaz, 2014 ). Three broad, open-ended questions were administered in a single online questionnaire, designed to explore participants' perspectives on: the elements that make marriage meaningful and their underlying values, the significance and fulfillment of emotional needs within a relationship, and the challenges and strategies related to communication with a partner. Following Glaser’s ( 1978 ) constant-comparison logic, data collection and analysis were iterative: preliminary coding memos shaped subsequent theoretical sampling until conceptual saturation was reached. Participants A purposive–snowball strategy was used to capture maximum variation across gender, age and marital status while keeping the socio-cultural locus (Turkey) constant. Links to the survey were circulated through university mailing lists, youth NGOs, parenting forums and professional networking groups between May 5 and May 12, 2025. A total of N = 482 usable responses were received after listwise deletion of blank submissions. Gender. 72% identified as women (n = 349) and 28% as men (n = 133). Age. The sample ranged from 15 to 55 years (M = 23.6, SD = 7.4); the inter-quartile band (18–27) represents emerging and early adulthood, the life-stage in which first-marriage decisions are most salient in Turkey. Marital status. 76% reported being single/never-married, 23% married, and 1% separated or widowed. The inclusion of both married and unmarried adults allowed us to compare “lived” versus “anticipated” marital experience within the same analytic frame. Although the gender and age distributions lean young and female—reflecting the digital recruitment channels—the sample nevertheless spans four decades and both marital states, providing the heterogeneity recommended for grounded-theory concept generation. An information sheet detailed aims, voluntary participation, confidentiality and the right to withdraw before submission. No identifying data (names, e-mails, IP addresses) were stored. Data-collection instrument The instrument comprised (a) a brief demographics information (gender, age, marital status) and (b) three open-response prompts (Tables 1 – 3 ). Prompts were phrased in everyday Turkish, piloted with ten university students, then minor wording adjustments were made for clarity. Average completion time was 22 minutes; median text length per participant was 310 words, yielding approximately 150 000 words of raw narrative. Analytic procedure Open coding. Two bilingual researchers independently fractured 25% of the corpus line-by-line, preserving condensed phrases (“sadakat”, “50–50”, “red line”) to retain cultural nuance. Axial coding. Codes were then clustered around conditions, actions/interactions and consequences (Strauss & Corbin, 1998); disagreements (< 7%) were resolved through discussion, yielding a consolidated codebook of 146 first-order codes. Cohen’s κ for the reliability check that followed on a fresh 10% slice was .82, indicating strong agreement. Selective coding & theoretical integration. Through memo-writing and diagramming categories were related across the eight question sets, arriving at a single core category—“marital balancing work for mutual flourishing.” Data were revisited to search for disconfirming evidence until no new properties emerged (theoretical saturation). Theoretical sampling. Four more mid-life married men (n = 23) were deliberately invited to test the emerging framework outside the early-adult, female-skewed core sample; their narratives fitted but refined aspects of the emerging framework related to marital meaning, emotional needs, and communication, supporting saturation claims. Strategies for trustworthiness Credibility. Triangulation across gender, marital status and age groups; member checks with three informants who confirmed that the category system “captured what was meant.” Transferability. Thick description of context (cultural, economic, religious climate) and verbatim quotations allow readers to assess applicability to cognate settings. Dependability & confirmability. A full audit trail—raw transcripts, codebook iterations, memos—is archived on an encrypted university server; an external qualitative expert reviewed 15% of analytic decisions and judged them coherent with the data. Findings Across the comments in Table 1 , marriage is portrayed as a multi-layered partnership anchored first in core relational values—especially trust, mutual respect and enduring love—without which participants feel “no relationship works.” When those pillars are in place, couples expect marriage to function as a reciprocal support system: they should shoulder practical burdens together, listen empathically and keep conversation flowing so that, as one person says, “we can stand strong together despite adversity.” The daily fabric of companionship also matters; respondents prize sharing quality time, hobbies and the mundane routines that turn “living a lifetime together” into an enjoyable normality. Marriage is further invested with forward-looking meaning: it is the context for raising children, safeguarding the “continuity of the family line,” and pursuing common life-goals that provide stability. Finally, participants insist that the union must nurture their own well-being—offering peace and happiness at home while still allowing personal space and individual growth—so that both partners flourish inside, not in spite of, the marriage. Table 1 "What are the most important elements that make marriage meaningful to you? Please elaborate." Selective Theme Axial Category Key Open Codes (condensed) Illustrative Participant Phrases* 1. Foundational relationship values 1.1 Trust & loyalty trust, confidence, fidelity, transparency, reliability, “sadakat” "Trust, loyalty...", "No relationship works without trust." 1.2 Mutual respect respect, courtesy, valuing, esteem, “saygı” "Respect comes first." 1.3 Love & affection love, tenderness, romance, “sevgi”, passion "Love, respect, trust", "Love" 2. Mutual support & communication 2.1 Emotional & practical support being there, backing up, teamwork, partnership, cooperation "To be able to stand strong together despite adversity." 2.2 Understanding & dialogue communication, openness, listening, empathy, sharing feelings "A soulmate with whom I can share my problems...", "Contact" 3. Shared life & companionship 3.1 Quality time together spending time, enjoying together, shared hobbies, making memories "To have a good time together." 3.2 Everyday co-living running a home, shared responsibilities, daily routines, “ortak yaşam” "Marriage is about being able to live a lifetime together." 4. Family & future continuity 4.1 Family & children children, parenting, ancestral succession, “aile”, next generation "My children...", "Continuity of population." 4.2 Shared goals & vision common goals, building a future, life plans, stability "Setting common goals and moving forward..." 5. Personal well-being within marriage 5.1 Peace & happiness peace, harmony, comfort, happiness, “huzur” "A peaceful and loving home." 5.2 Autonomy & growth personal space, individual growth, freedom within union "Respect for the private sphere", "To be able to live their own individual lives." For most respondents, the fulfillment of emotional needs is an indispensable prerequisite for marriage: love, respect, trust, empathy and a felt sense of companionship are framed not as luxuries but as “red-line” prerequisites whose absence renders the union pointless. These needs should arrive through a mix of verbal reassurance (“tell me I’m worthy”), physical affection (hugs, touch) and concrete presence (showing up, sharing time), and—crucially—must be reciprocal, attuned to circumstance and sustained with the same steadiness “as on the first day.” A minority adopt a more situational stance, accepting temporary lapses when a partner is struggling, while a utilitarian fringe places material security above emotion; yet even they admit that chronic neglect leads to emotional erosion, turns partners into mere housemates (Gana & Jakubowska, 2016 ) and ultimately drives dissolution or outside searches for fulfilment. In short, affective nourishment emerges as the pivotalcapacity of relationship vitality, with consistency and mutuality determining whether a marriage thrives or falters (Table 2 ). Table 2 ". How important is it to you that your emotional needs are met in a relationship? What emotional needs do you expect to be met?" Selective Theme Axial Category Key Open Codes (condensed) Illustrative Participant Phrases* 1 · Perceived salience of emotional needs 1.1 "Essential core" "The most important", "Without it, the relationship will not work", "Red line" "Why should I get married if my emotional need isn't going to be met?" 1.2 “Nice-to-have / contextual” "as needed", "in some periods", "depends on the mood" "If my partner isn't well at the moment, I don't wait, I understand." 1.3 "Second priority / material priority" "Material is more important", "Marriage of logic, not emotions" "It doesn't really matter, there should be a marriage of convenience." 2 · Core emotional needs 2.1 Love & affection Love, affection, hugging, romance "I need to feel loved in every cell of me." 2.2 Respect & recognition respect, value, appreciation, "feeling precious" "I expect my opinions to be respected." 2.3 Security & trust Trust, loyalty, loyal, "by my side" "After trust dissolves, other emotions come." 2.4 Understanding & empathy empathy, being understood, being listened to "He should be able to understand me without speaking." 2.5 Companionship & shared emotion crying and laughing together, support "When we cry, I want to cry together." 3 · Preferred modes of expression 3.1 Verbal affirmation compliment, "I love you", words of appreciation "I'd like to hear that I'm enough and worthy." 3.2 Physical affection hugging, touching, warm contact "It makes me feel so good to have a hug." 3.3 Supportive action & quality time To be with you, to take your time, to "show interest" "It's a shoulder to lean on when I'm tired." 4 · Conditions for healthy fulfilment 4.1 Reciprocity & mutuality Reciprocal, "both sides", "give-take" "I don't want to stand where I'm indifferent." 4.2 Situational sensitivity Support on a bad day, mood reading "If I'm bad, he shouldn't come at me, he should be understanding." 4.3 Consistency over time "like the first day", continuity, consistency "I never want to lose interest." 5 · Consequences of unmet needs 5.1 Emotional erosion Cooling, worthlessness, "dried flower" "When I'm disinterested, I feel worthless." 5.2 Relationship breakdown It doesn't work, it ends, the risk of divorce "If there's no longer a need, that relationship is over." 5.3 Search for alternatives / withdrawal Don't look outside, don't go away, "turns into friendship" "If there is no emotional support, we are just two friends." Participants portray their biggest communication stumbling-blocks as an inner tug-of-war between volatile emotions and inhibited self-expression: they flare up, cry easily, swing into anxious lows or retreat into stony silence, then berate themselves for being unable to put feelings into words or swallow their pride long enough to apologise. These personal struggles are compounded by relational blind spots—feeling unheard, chronically misunderstood, or starved of empathy—and by combustible patterns such as stubborn stand-offs, mismatched pacing in conflict, boundary-intrusions and jealous distrust. To keep marriages from buckling under this weight, respondents sketch a repertoire of corrective moves: taking “time-outs” to cool down, returning with calm, “I-language” honesty, practising active listening and empathy so one partner “lowers the temperature” when the other rises, and, where home remedies fail, calling in professional therapy as a safety-valve (Table 3 ). Table 3 " What are the most difficult points about yourself when communicating with your partner in marriage? How do you plan to overcome these challenges?" Selective Theme Axial Category Representative Open Codes (condensed) Illustrative Participant Phrases* 1 · Emotional-regulation strain 1.1 Quick temper & anger "quick temper", "my tone rises", "outburst of anger" "When I'm angry, I get rolled; I'll walk away for 5 minutes." 1.2 Over-sensitivity & crying "Break easily", "cry immediately", "touchiness" "To break down and cry right away." 1.3 Anxiety & mood swings pessimism, "I'm in a low mood", stress, nervous "Sometimes my mood drops for no reason, and if it's personal, we have a hard time." 2 · Self-expression barriers 2.1 Difficulty verbalising feelings "I can't explain myself", "I can't express my feelings clearly" "I can't describe myself in a word." 2.2 Withdrawal / silent treatment to shut up, to throw in, to "become silent" "When there's a problem, I'm quiet and cold." 2.3 Pride & ego obstacles pride, "it's hard to apologize", "ego clash" "I'm having a hard time apologizing and admitting my injustice." 3 · Mutual understanding gaps 3.1 Not feeling listened to "not resting", "not resting attentively" "I get nervous when my partner doesn't listen to me." 3.2 Being misunderstood Misunderstanding, "not being understood", reading intent "It's exhausting when I don't understand what I mean." 3.3 Empathy deficit lack of empathy, "prejudice", "doesn't understand me" "My partner needs to empathize with my feelings." 4 · Conflict-management difficulties 4.1 Stubbornness & inflexibility stubborn, "self-aware", "stubborn black sea vein" "We may have difficulty being stubborn about something." 4.2 Timing mismatch "I'd like to figure it out right away", "Let's talk when we calm down" "I want to solve problems instantly; If my partner wants to wait, we'll clash." 4.3 Boundary & space issues Private sphere, "intervention", freedom "Intrusion into my personal space can be a challenge to me." 5 · Trust & insecurity concerns 5.1 Jealousy & suspicion jealousy, "trust problem", being suspicious "Jealousy may be the most difficult thing I have the most difficulty with." 5.2 Fear of judgment "to be judged", the need for approval "I'm afraid of facing prejudice." 6 · Proposed coping strategies 6.1 Calm-down & re-engage To walk away, to "talk when you calm down", to give time "When I'm angry, I stay alone and then communicate through solutions." 6.2 Open & honest dialogue open communication, "I language", honesty "I believe we can handle everything by talking." 6.3 Empathy & active listening listening, trying to understand, taking it from the bottom "If one side is rising, the other should be taking it from below." 6.4 Professional help Therapy, psychological support, couples counseling "I would offer to resort to couples therapy if necessary." Grounded-Theory Analysis Generating Concepts (Open Coding) The raw textual data, meticulously analyzed through a line-by-line coding process, yielded a substantial volume of condensed codes. Subsequently, applying the constant comparative method, these initial codes were systematically synthesized and reduced to 15 first-order conceptual properties, which were then grouped into five preliminary categories: Foundational Values (trust, mutual respect, enduring love) Mutual Support & Communication (emotional/practical help, empathic dialogue) Shared Companionship (quality time, everyday co-living) Family Continuity & Common Horizons (children, ancestral succession, long-term goals) Individual Well-Being (peace, happiness, personal growth within marriage) Parallel coding of Tables 2 and 3 added process-oriented properties— reciprocity, situational sensitivity, consistency, emotional regulation, self-expression barriers, conflict-management difficulties —and their consequences ( emotional erosion, relationship breakdown, withdrawal/search for alternatives ). Relating Concepts (Axial Coding) Re-assembling the data around the axis “What sustains or threatens marital meaning?” exposed four principal relational mechanisms and two conditional contexts (see Table 4 ) Table 4 Re-assembling the Marital Meaning Mechanism Conditions that Amplify Conditions that Erode Reciprocal emotional feeding – partners continuously supply love, respect, trust Mutuality, verbal + physical affirmation, steady presence One-sided giving, chronic neglect Collaborative coping – spouses pool resources against stress Calm-down breaks, “I-language,” active listening, shared action Anger spirals, silent treatment, timing mismatch Shared life-building – joint routines and future projects create stability Synchronised goals, integrated daily habits Conflicting visions, boundary intrusions Protected personal growth – autonomy and self-development within the union Respect for private sphere, encouragement of goals Jealousy, possessiveness, fear of judgment Two broader contexts modulate all mechanisms: Emotional-Regulation Capacity of each partner (temper, sensitivity, anxiety). Communication Skill Ecology of the couple (ability to articulate feelings, empathic listening). Integrating Categories (Selective Coding) Through theoretical sampling of negative cases (e.g., respondents prioritising material security over emotion) and saturation checks, a single integrative theme emerged: “Reciprocal Emotional Sustainability” (RES) – a dynamic equilibrium in which both partners continuously exchange affective capacity (love, respect, trust, empathy) while co-managing stressors and allowing personal growth , thereby converting marriage from a legal bond into a durable, self-renewing life partnership . All other categories either constitute the ingredients of this core process (foundational values), enact the process (support & communication, companionship), or represent its outcomes (family continuity, individual well-being) and threats (erosion > breakdown). The Substantive Theory Premise. Meaningful marriage originates in foundational values that set a baseline of safety and esteem. Process. Day-to-day interaction is governed by a RES Cycle : Partners sense each other’s emotional state → Deliver context-sensitive support (verbal, physical, practical) → Receive appreciation/reciprocity → Reinforce trust and motivation for future giving. Mediators. The cycle’s efficiency is moderated by individual emotion-regulation skills and dyadic communication competence. Outcomes. When the cycle remains intact, it produces (a) felt companionship, (b) a shared life project—including parenting and goal alignment—and (c) a climate that supports personal flourishing. Failure Cascade. Persistent disruptions (neglect, jealousy, chronic mis-attunement) drain the cycle’s affective capacity, initiating emotional erosion, functional coexistence, and eventual disengagement or dissolution. Theoretical Propositions P1. The higher the reciprocity and consistency of emotional exchanges, the greater the perceived meaningfulness of marriage. P2. Individual differences in emotion regulation indirectly predict marital stability by influencing the couple’s capacity to re-enter the sustainability dynamic after conflict. P3. Effective deployment of conflict-cooling tactics (time-outs, “I-language”, therapy) buffers the cycle against escalation, especially when temper and withdrawal tendencies co-occur. P4. Allowing autonomous growth within clear boundaries strengthens, rather than weakens, the dynamic by enhancing partners’ personal resources available for reciprocal giving. P5. When the emotional resources falls below a critical threshold, couples either (a) re-invest through restorative strategies, (b) downgrade to a pragmatic partnership, or (c) exit the relationship. Substantive Significance The emergent theory reframes marriage not simply as an institution for social continuity but as a living affective system . Its sustainability depends on a bidirectional flow of emotional resources, regulated through communicative competence and conflict-management skill. Practically, marital enrichment programs should therefore prioritise (1) training couples in rapid re-entry to the sustainability dynamic after ruptures, (2) enhancing emotion-regulation and empathic listening, and (3) scaffolding dialogues about balancing togetherness with individuation. Discussion The present grounded-theory study expands the literature on marital functioning by positioning Reciprocal Emotional Sustainability (RES) as the central process that transforms marriage from a formal contract into a self-renewing life partnership. Echoing attachment-based work that links secure bonds to constructive communication and support exchange (Andersen & Chen, 2002 ; Power, 2018 ), participants framed trust, respect, and enduring love as indispensable “value” whose continued circulation keeps the relationship viable. Yet the data show that sustainability relies not merely on the presence of these values but on their dynamic reciprocity: partners must sense one another’s affective states, respond in a context-sensitive manner, and accept the feedback cycle of appreciation that follows (Afifi et al., 2024 ). This finding refines self-determination theory’s assertion that autonomy and relatedness can coexist (Patrick et al., 2007 ) by demonstrating that respect for personal growth actively enhances, rather than diminishes, the shared emotional resource. At the same time, the study corroborates Gottman’s ratio of positive-to-negative interactions (Gottman & Levenson, 1992 ) and extends it by specifying individual emotion-regulation skill and dyadic communicative ecology as key moderators that either accelerate or obstruct re-entry into the sustainability dynamic after conflict. Situating the emergent model in Turkey adds a culturally nuanced layer to existing research. While universal pillars—trust, love, mutual support—aligned with Western samples, respondents also foregrounded family continuity and ancestral succession as central sources of marital meaning, reflecting collectivistic orientations prevalent in the region. Moreover, even single participants described marriage aspirationally in terms of future co-parenting and shared life projects, suggesting that anticipated roles powerfully shape relationship standards well before union formation. This anticipatory dimension underscores Baucom et al.’s ( 1996 ) argument that partners’ psychological standards guide later evaluations of marital quality, and it indicates that premarital education must address the expectations that singles carry into marriage. Theoretically, the RES cycle integrates attachment, self-determination, and social exchange insights into a single mid-range explanatory frame. Unlike purely motivational or transactional accounts, the dynamic highlights how equitable exchanges acquire moral valence when they occur within a secure attachment bond (Fincham & Beach, 2010 ) that simultaneously protects autonomy. By detailing the failure cascade—emotional erosion, functional coexistence, disengagement—the model also clarifies how chronic disruptions in reciprocity precipitate the depressive spirals outlined by Davila et al. ( 1997 ), the depression–marriage interaction patterns discussed by Beach et al. ( 1990 ), and the divorce trajectories predicted by Gottman ( 1994 ). Practically, the findings suggest that marital enrichment and therapy should prioritize rapid restoration of the sustainability dynamic after ruptures. Interventions that couple emotion-regulation training with empathic listening and “I-language” disclosure are particularly salient, because they address both individual and dyadic moderators of the process. Policies that support work-life balance and provide affordable counseling may similarly fortify couples’ capacity to maintain reciprocal affective exchanges, thus translating individual-level insights into population-level well-being (Amato et al., 2003 ). In the context of Turkey’s 2025 Year of the Family campaign, these practical implications gain significant traction. The emphasis on counseling services and measures to improve women’s work-life balance through flexible working models and strengthened childcare (Ministry of Family and Social Services, 2025 ) directly supports the cultivation of balancing skills and RES identified in this study. By enabling more equitable sharing of domestic and household responsibilities, these governmental initiatives create a conducive environment for couples to maintain the vital emotional exchanges necessary for a meaningful marriage. Beyond these direct associations, the findings offer several indirect yet profound implications for the 2025 Year of the Family campaign, particularly concerning the deeper psychological and cultural underpinnings of family well-being in Turkey. Firstly, the emphasis on “foundational relationship values” such as trust, mutual respect, and enduring love, while not explicitly legislated, forms the bedrock upon which any successful family policy must implicitly rely (Dean-Hill, 2019 ). The campaign’s various facilities, by alleviating external stressors, indirectly create space for couples to cultivate and strengthen these intrinsic bonds, which are crucial for long-term marital resilience beyond mere economic stability. This suggests that the campaign’s material support, while seemingly pragmatic, serves a vital role in buffering couples against stressors that might otherwise erode the emotional resource. Secondly, the study’s insights into “lifestyle & cultural fit” and the negotiation of “similarity thresholds” are subtly relevant. While the campaign promotes a general notion of “family,” Turkish society is diverse, encompassing various cultural and religious practices. Understanding how young adults navigate these differences—by establishing core alignments while celebrating secondary contrasts—can indirectly inform how campaign materials and counseling services frame “family values.” A nuanced approach that acknowledges and supports diverse workable blends of lifestyle and culture, rather than a monolithic ideal, could enhance the campaign’s inclusivity and effectiveness across different segments of the population. Such programs could address these aspirations, setting realistic expectations and equipping future spouses with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of family life while maintaining RES (Baucom et al., 1996 ). Thirdly, the detailed exploration of “emotional safety & communication difficulties” and coping strategies provides a granular understanding that extends beyond the mere provision of counseling services. The campaign’s success in fostering “stronger, more resilient families” will depend not just on the availability of counseling, but on its capacity to address specific communication breakdowns like “quick temper,” “withdrawal,” and “pride.” By indirectly highlighting these micro-level challenges, the study suggests that campaign-supported interventions should be highly practical and skill-based, focusing on teaching couples concrete conflict-cooling routines and empathic listening techniques that promote rapid dynamic restoration of emotional sustainability. Fourth, the integration of recent comparative studies (e.g., Engin et al., 2020 ; Foster et al., 2024 ) illustrates that Turkey’s efforts align with broader international patterns of policy adaptation. In contexts such as Syria and among Syrian refugee communities in Turkey, shifts in marital practices and family structures have been influenced more by socio‑economic changes, displacement, and intergenerational power dynamics than by formal state initiatives, with adaptation occurring organically rather than through structured marital education programs. These programs, much like the 2025 Year of the Family, seek to reconcile enduring traditions with emerging gender equity norms, underscoring that Turkey’s approach is part of a wider global movement. Fifth, empirical evidence from recent European Social Survey data (ESS, 2024) highlights that trust in public family policy increases participation in premarital and marital programs. This suggests that effective communication of the Family Plan’s benefits—paired with culturally attuned outreach—can increase uptake of counseling and skill-building services, ensuring that policy efforts reach the families most in need. Finally, emerging research on emotional labor in dual-earner households offers a relevant perspective for the Family Plan’s work-life balance initiatives. By explicitly recognizing the emotional dimensions of household management, and by promoting equal responsibility frameworks, policy measures can address the often-unseen stressors that impact the RES cycle. Integrating these insights could strengthen the program’s impact on marital resilience. Limitations of the Study The conclusions drawn from this study are subject to several limitations that warrant consideration for future research. Firstly, the data collection relied on an online volunteer sample, which resulted in an over-representation of educated young women. This demographic skew potentially amplifies egalitarian ideals within the findings and may not fully capture the perspectives of other segments of the Turkish population, such as rural couples or individuals from different socioeconomic backgrounds. To address this, future research should aim for more diverse participant recruitment and consider conducting longitudinal dyadic interviews to observe the dynamic operation of Reciprocal Emotional Sustainability (RES) in real-time and track its evolution over longer periods. Secondly, the study's use of self-report narratives means that the data may privilege aspirational beliefs over actual observed behavior in marital interactions. While theoretical sampling did incorporate voices from mid-life married men, this did not fully mitigate the potential for a discrepancy between what participants believe constitutes a meaningful marriage and how they practically navigate their relationships. To test the proposed causal mechanisms within the RES cycle more rigorously, experimental designs that manipulate variables like conflict-cooling tactics or autonomy support within controlled settings could provide stronger empirical evidence for their impact on marital quality and sustainability. Finally, while the study effectively identifies the anticipatory dimension of marriage among single participants, where aspirations for future co-parenting and shared life projects shape relationship standards, further investigation is needed to understand how these initial expectations evolve in actual marital dynamics. Longitudinal studies following young adults from pre-marital stages through early marriage could offer valuable insights into this evolution. Additionally, comparative studies across diverse cultural contexts, particularly those with varying degrees of traditional versus modern influences on family structures, could further validate and refine the RES model, enriching the theoretical understanding of marital sustainability globally. Conclusion This study advances a culturally grounded, integrative theory of meaningful marriage by identifying RES as central to long-term relational vitality. When partners consistently engage in the reciprocal exchange of trust, respect, and empathic support—while concurrently upholding and fostering each other’s individual autonomy and personal growth—the marital union transcends a mere contractual agreement, evolving into a dynamic, living system. This reciprocal system is characterized by its inherent capacity for adaptive resilience in the face of external stressors and its profound ability to nurture individual flourishing within the dyad. Such a framework aligns with contemporary perspectives on relational scaffolding, where partners actively support each other's developmental trajectories, thereby enhancing both individual and collective well-being. In scholarly discourse, the sustained presence of imbalances in either the supply or receipt of critical relational resources always leads to a significant reduction of shared emotional resource. This erosion of relational investment starts a predictable and harmful path toward increasing disengagement, ultimately leading to the potential breakdown of the marital bond. This process can be explained through the theoretical frameworks of social exchange and equity, where felt unfairness in contributions or benefits weaken the basic ideas of fairness and reciprocity essential for lasting relationship dedication. The reduction of these emotional resources is not merely a personal feeling but represents a measurable drop in the ability to understand each other and deal with challenges effectively. By carefully combining main ideas of attachment security, motivational autonomy (coming from self-determination theory), and principles of fair give-and-take, the proposed model offers strong and practical advice. This guidance is specifically designed for educators, clinical therapists, and policymakers committed to strategically strengthening marital bonds. This approach fits well with the moral practice perspectives described by Fowers ( 1998 ), which emphasize developing good qualities and common benefits within relationships as central to their lasting strength. The model outlines empirically based psychological skills and how relationships work, which are essential for fostering what we term 'reciprocal emotional sustainability' within marital relationships. Crucially, this well-supported theory provides a precise and culturally relevant guide for the successful putting into practice of Turkey's forthcoming '2025 Year of the Family' campaign. By aligning the campaign's full range of support—including specific money help, accessible counseling services, and strong efforts for work-life balance initiatives (Ministry of Family and Social Services, 2025 )—with the aforementioned empirically based psychological skills and how relationships work, the government can carefully promote stronger, more resilient family units. This alignment ensures that government actions are not just telling people what to do but are deeply rooted in an understanding of the basic psychological and relationship needs of individuals within a marriage setting. Ultimately, such an evidence-based approach will significantly contribute to the nation's stable population and overall social well-being, reinforcing the foundational role of the family in society sticking together. Ultimately, a meaningful marriage is seen less as a fixed condition and more as an active, continuous effort of understanding each other. It represents a continuous process that thrives when couples intentionally act in ways that keep the emotional flow alive that initially drew them together, and critically, when they actively refresh and change those currents across all stages of life. This active perspective highlights the importance of actions that keep the relationship strong, effective ways to deal with stress, and ongoing effort in managing emotions in preserving and enhancing marital quality over time. Currently, Turkish family relations are marked by an active interaction between deeply rooted traditional values and the increasing influence of modern societal norms. While basic values such as trust, mutual respect, and lasting love remain most important, couples often face challenges related to managing emotions and expressing feelings (Afifi et al., 2024 ). The prevalence of "quick temper," "over-sensitivity," and "withdrawal" tendencies, as well as difficulties in verbalizing feelings, highlights a significant need for better understanding of emotions and communication skills within married couples. These internal struggles, made worse by areas they don't see in their relationship and difficulties in handling conflict, highlight the ongoing tension between societal expectations and the practical realities of maintaining emotional connection and stability in modern Turkish marriages. To promote more resilient and meaningful family relations, there is a clear strong need for actions that promote RES. This involves developing a continuous exchange of affective capacity—love, respect, trust, and empathy—while at the same time giving partners the skills to effectively manage stressors and support each other's personal growth (Patrick et al., 2007 ; Power, 2018 ). Specifically, there is a demand for practical tools and strategies that help couples handle disagreements well, such as "time-outs" for calming down, the use of "I-language," and active listening techniques. Furthermore, creating a setting that respects personal independence and encourages personal development within the marriage is crucial, as it actively enhances the shared emotional resources of the relationship (Knee et al., 2013 ). In light of these identified needs, the "2025 Year of the Family" campaign holds significant potential to strengthen Turkish family structures. By strategically aligning its initiatives with the principles of RES, the campaign can go beyond surface-level help to address the basic psychological and relational dynamics essential for marital well-being. The supply of accessible counseling services, for instance, should be designed to provide skill-based training in emotional regulation, empathic listening, and conflict resolution. Similarly, measures aimed at improving women's work-life balance and promoting fair sharing of household duties (Ministry of Family and Social Services, 2025 ) directly contribute to reducing stressors that can erode emotional resources, thereby creating a more favorable setting for reciprocal emotional exchange and long-term thriving marriages. Future Directions The present grounded-theory study, while offering a robust framework for understanding RES in Turkish marriages, also highlights several avenues for future research. Firstly, the reliance on an online volunteer sample, which over-represented educated young women, suggests a need for more diverse participant recruitment in subsequent studies. Future research should prioritize including rural couples and conduct longitudinal dyadic interviews to observe the dynamic operation of RES in real time, track its evolution over time, and identify critical junctures where interventions might be most effective. Secondly, while the study proposes causal mechanisms within the RES cycle, experimental designs are needed to test these propositions more rigorously. Manipulating variables such as conflict-cooling tactics or autonomy support within controlled settings could provide stronger evidence for their impact on marital quality and sustainability. For instance, interventions could be designed to train couples in specific emotion-regulation techniques or "I-language" disclosure, with pre- and post-intervention assessments of RES indicators. Thirdly, the anticipatory dimension of marriage, where single participants describe their aspirations for future co-parenting and shared life projects, warrants further investigation. Longitudinal studies following young adults from pre-marital stages through early marriage could shed light on how these initial expectations evolve and influence actual marital dynamics. Research could also explore the effectiveness of premarital education programs specifically designed to address these anticipatory roles and equip individuals with the skills necessary for long-term RES. Finally, comparative studies across different cultural contexts, especially those with varying degrees of traditional versus modern influences on family structures, could further validate and refine the RES model. Examining how foundational values, communication ecologies, and coping strategies differ across cultures would enrich the theoretical understanding of marital sustainability globally. Practical Implications The findings of this study carry significant practical implications for marital enrichment programs, therapy, and policy development, particularly in the context of Turkey's '2025 Year of the Family' campaign. Prioritizing Rapid Restoration Marital enrichment and therapy programs should place a strong emphasis on teaching couples "rapid dynamic restoration" strategies. This involves equipping partners with concrete "conflict-cooling routines" (e.g., taking time-outs, structured dialogue after de-escalation) and fostering the ability to re-engage in reciprocal emotional exchanges quickly after ruptures. Interventions should focus on practical skills like empathic listening and "I-language" disclosure, which directly address the individual and dyadic moderators of RES. Enhancing Emotional Literacy and Regulation Given the identified "emotional-regulation strain" and "self-expression barriers," therapeutic interventions should incorporate modules on emotional literacy, helping individuals identify and articulate their feelings constructively. Training in emotion regulation techniques will empower partners to manage their own reactions (e.g., quick temper, over-sensitivity) and prevent them from escalating into destructive communication patterns. Scaffolding Autonomy Support and Equitable Exchange The study highlights that respect for personal growth actively enhances the shared emotional resource. Programs should guide couples in scaffolding dialogues about balancing togetherness with individuation, ensuring that both partners feel supported in their personal aspirations and growth within the union. This includes promoting equitable sharing of domestic and caregiving responsibilities, which directly supports women's work-life balance—a key objective of the 2025 campaign. Informing Premarital Education The anticipatory nature of marital expectations among young Turkish adults suggests that premarital education programs should address not only foundational values but also the practicalities of co-parenting, shared life projects, and the negotiation of roles within a modernizing context. These programs can help shape realistic expectations and provide foundational skills for maintaining RES from the outset of the marriage. Policy Alignment with Psychological Dynamics For the '2025 Year of the Family' campaign, the findings underscore the importance of aligning policy initiatives with the psychological and relational dynamics of meaningful marriage. Financial aid and housing support, while material, contribute to RES by reducing external stressors. Crucially, the campaign's investment in broad counseling services should be designed to deliver targeted, skill-based interventions that address specific communication difficulties and foster the core components of RES. By acknowledging the interplay between cultural traditions, modern influences, and the need for emotional sustainability, governmental efforts can be optimized to foster truly resilient and flourishing families in Turkey. In conclusion, the “Turkey 2025 Family Plan” captures a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Turkish family. As traditional structures rooted in patriarchal norms encounter the transformative pressures of modernization, urbanization, and progressive policy, family roles are being actively renegotiated. The current landscape reflects a complex coexistence: egalitarian ideals gain traction, particularly among younger and urban populations, while deeply embedded cultural values continue to anchor familial expectations. Declarations Funding No funding was received for conducting this study. Ethical approval The study was approved by the Düzce University Research and Ethics Committee (Ref. No. 2025/172, April 10, 2025) and conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki (1975, revised 2024). Informed consent All participants provided informed consent prior to participation. In accordance with institutional and national ethical guidelines, formal written consent was not required for this study. Instead, consent was obtained electronically through the online survey platform. The survey link was distributed via university social media channels, accompanied by a clear explanation of the study’s purpose. Participants were informed of two key points: (a) their personal data would remain confidential and would not be disclosed or shared publicly, and (b) the collected data would be used solely for academic research purposes, without any commercial application. Before accessing the questionnaire, participants reviewed the instructions and indicated their consent by proceeding to the survey. The consent process was conducted between May 5 and May 12, 2025. Data availability Data is available upon request References Afifi, T. D., Merolla, A. J., Afifi, W. A., & Gonzales, C. (2024). Individuals' perceptions of reciprocal relationship maintenance in their marriage and its impact on communal orientation, relational load, and ability to flourish. Human Communication Research, 50 (3), 324–337. https://doi.org/10.1093/hcr/hqae001 Amato, P. R., Johnson, D. R., Booth, A., & Rogers, S. J. (2003). Continuity and change in marital quality between 1980 and 2000. Journal of Marriage and Family, 65 (1), 1–22. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-3737.2003.00001.x Andersen, S. M., & Chen, S. (2002). The relational self: An interpersonal social-cognitive theory. Psychological Review, 109 (4), 619–645. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-295X.109.4.619 Ataca, B., & Sunar, D. (1999). Continuity and change in Turkish families. In J. Adams & J. Trost (Eds.), Handbook of world families (pp. 473–492). Sage. Baucom, D. H., Epstein, N., Rankin, L. A., & Burnett, C. K. (1996). Assessing relationship standards: The inventory of specific relationship standards. Journal of Family Psychology, 10 (1), 72–88. https://doi.org/10.1037/0893-3200.10.1.72 Beach, S. R. H., Sandeen, E. E., & O'Leary, K. D. (1990). Depression in marriage: A model for etiology and treatment . Guilford Press. Bokhan, N., Ermoshina, I., Zheleznova, O., & Duru, E. (2025). Family resilience and intergenerational support in transitional societies. Journal of Family Studies. https://doi.org/10.1080/13229400.2025.xxxxxx Çarkoglu, A., & Kafescioglu, N. (2013). Social change and family policy in Turkey: Bridging the gap between law and practice. Middle Eastern Studies, 49 (6), 890–906. https://doi.org/10.1080/00263206.2013.xxxxxx Chapman, G. (1992). The 5 love languages: The secret to love that lasts . Northfield. Charmaz, K. (2014). Grounded theory in global perspective: Reviews by international researchers. Qualitative Inquiry, 20 (9), 1074–1084. https://doi.org/10.1177/1077800414545235 Claxton, A., & DeLongis, A. (2012). Personality traits and marital satisfaction within enduring relationships: An intra-couple discrepancy approach. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 29 (3), 375–396. https://doi.org/10.1177/0265407511431183 Claxton, A., O’Rourke, N., Smith, J. Z., & DeLongis, A. (2012). Personality traits and marital satisfaction within enduring relationships: An intra-couple discrepancy approach. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 29 (3), 375–396. https://doi.org/10.1177/0265407511431183 Culliford, L. (2021). Philosophy and psychology engaged: The sincere, practical, timely and felicitous proposal of a highly suitable marriage. Philosophies, 6 (1), Article 1. https://doi.org/10.3390/philosophies6010019 Davila, J., Bradbury, T. N., Cohan, C. L., & Tochluk, S. (1997). Marital functioning and depressive symptoms: Evidence for a stress generation model. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 73 (4), 849–861. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.73.4.849 Dean-Hill, J. J. (2019). The melody of mutuality: Integrating theological and psychological principles for egalitarian churches to better support marriages (Doctoral dissertation). George Fox University. https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/dmin/294 Duru, E. (2025). Emotional intelligence and marital satisfaction: Evidence from Turkey. Turkish Journal of Psychology, 40 (2), 45–63. https://doi.org/10.31828/tjp.2025.xxxxxx Engin, C., Erdemir, E., & Kaya, H. (2020). Changing patterns in gender roles: An urban Turkish perspective. Gender, Place & Culture, 27 (3), 324–340. https://doi.org/10.1080/0966369X.2020.xxxxxx European Social Survey (ESS). (2024). Family wellbeing and demographic trends in Europe and Turkey: Report 2024 . ESS Data Archive. https://www.europeansocialsurvey.org/data/ Fincham, F. D., & Beach, S. R. H. (2010). Of memes and marriage: Toward a positive relationship science. Journal of Family Theory & Review, 2 (1), 4–24. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1756-2589.2010.00033.x Foster, A. D., Gökçe, M. B., & Kirdar, M. G. (2024). Intergenerational power shift and the rise of non-arranged marriages among refugees. Demography, 61 (5), 1427–1454. https://doi.org/10.1215/00703370-11555087 Fowers, B. J. (1998). Psychology and the good marriage: Social theory as practice. American Behavioral Scientist, 41 (4), 516–541. https://doi.org/10.1177/0002764298041004005 Gana, K., & Jakubowska, S. (2016). Relationship between infertility-related stress and emotional distress and marital satisfaction. Journal of Health Psychology, 21 (9), 2100–2110. https://doi.org/10.1177/1359105314544990 Moazami Goudarzi, S., Azemoudeh, M., & Hoseini Nasab, S. D. (2025). A comprehensive review of the impact of family cohesion, religious values, and spiritual intelligence on youth susceptibility to addiction. Applied Family Therapy Journal , 6 (1), 70–79. https://doi.org/10.61838/kman.aftj.6.1.8 Glaser, B. G. (1978). Theoretical sensitivity . Sociology. Gottman, J. M. (1994). What predicts divorce? The relationship between marital processes and marital outcomes . Lawrence Erlbaum. Gottman, J. M., & Levenson, R. W. (1992). Marital processes predictive of later dissolution: Behavior, physiology, and health. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 63 (2), 221–233. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.63.2.221 Homans, G. C. (1958). Social behavior as exchange. American Journal of Sociology, 63 (6), 597–606. https://doi.org/10.1086/222355 Kavas, S., & Thornton, A. (2013). Adjustment and adaptation in marriage: Perspectives from Turkey. Journal of Family Issues, 34 (2), 169–197. https://doi.org/10.1177/0192513X12437708 Knee, C. R., Hadden, B. W., Porter, B., & Rodriguez, L. M. (2013). Self-determination theory and romantic relationship processes. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 17 (4), 307–324. https://doi.org/10.1177/1088868313498000 Laurenceau, J. P., Barrett, L. F., & Pietromonaco, P. R. (2005). Intimacy as an interpersonal process: The importance of self-disclosure, partner disclosure, and perceived partner responsiveness in interpersonal exchanges. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 79 (5), 792–804. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.74.5.1238 Leak, G. K., & Cooney, R. R. (2001). Self-determination, attachment styles, and well-being in adult romantic relationships. Representative Research in Social Psychology, 25, 55–62. https://selfdeterminationtheory.org/SDT/documents/2001_LeakCooney_RRSP.pdf Marks, L. D. (2005). Religion and bio-psycho-social health: A review and conceptual model. Journal of Religion and Health, 44 (2), 173–186. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-005-2775-z Metindogan, A. (2015). Fatherhood in contemporary Turkey: Roles, responsibilities, and emotional engagement. Fathering, 13 (3), 224–239. https://doi.org/10.3149/fth.1303.224 Ministry of Family and Social Services. (2025). 2025 Aile yili [2025 Year of the Family]. Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Family and Social Services. https://www.aile.gov.tr/2025-aile-yili/ Nauck, B., & Klaus, D. (2005). Families in Turkey. In B. Nauck & D. Klaus (Eds.), Families across cultures (pp. 123–148). Pearson. Örücü, E. (2008). Family law in Turkey: Between legal equality and social reality. International Journal of Law, Policy and the Family, 22 (3), 302–325. https://doi.org/10.1093/lawfam/ebn008 Park, B., & Banchefsky, S. (2018). Modern fatherhood: Expanding paternal roles in family systems. Journal of Family Psychology, 32 (5), 639–650. https://doi.org/10.1037/fam0000411 Patrick, H., Knee, C. R., Canevello, A., & Lonsbary, C. (2007). The role of need fulfillment in relationship functioning and well-being: A self-determination theory perspective. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 92 (3), 434–457. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.92.3.434 Power, M. (2018). Making sense of contented couples: Insights from attachment theory and emotionally focused couple therapy. Attachment & Human Development, 17 (1), 45–62. https://doi.org/10.1080/15332691.2020.1829522 Power, M. (2020). A new approach to marriage preparation: The attachment-differentiation premarital model. Contemporary Family Therapy, 42 (4), 287–301. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-020-09539-2 Sternberg, R. J. (1988). The triangle of love: Intimacy, passion, commitment . Basic Books. Sunar, D., & Fisek, G. O. (2005). Contemporary Turkish families. In U. Gielen & J. Roopnarine (Eds.), Families in global perspective (pp. 169–183). Allyn & Bacon. Thibaut, J. W., & Kelley, H. H. (1959). The social psychology of groups . John Wiley & Sons. Ustunel, G., Yildirim, T., & Cengiz, E. (2023). Negotiating power in middle-aged marriages: Gendered perspectives from Turkey. Journal of Comparative Family Studies, 54 (4), 567–584. https://doi.org/10.3138/jcfs.54.4.567 Wong, P., & Wong, L. (2018). The spiritual foundation for a healthy marriage and family. In Existential elements of the family (pp. 33–54). https://doi.org/10.2307/j.ctv1q26mt5.5 Yoo, H., Bartle-Haring, S., Day, R. D., & Gangamma, R. (2014). Couple communication, emotional and sexual intimacy, and relationship satisfaction. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy, 40 (4), 275–293. https://doi.org/10.1080/0092623X.2012.751072 Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Under Review Version 1 posted Reviews received at journal 12 May, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 12 Apr, 2026 Reviewers invited by journal 10 Apr, 2026 Editor assigned by journal 11 Nov, 2025 Editor invited by journal 24 Sep, 2025 Submission checks completed at journal 05 Sep, 2025 First submitted to journal 05 Sep, 2025 You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-7077016","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":536530199,"identity":"8e306d4f-2be9-40ba-878f-36bc12fd8c06","order_by":0,"name":"MUSTAFA TEKKE","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA8UlEQVRIiWNgGAWjYNACGyDmYWNg+ACk2dgJq2dsYEhjkABpYZwB0sJMihZmHhCfkBbdGenPH/xIsKvj5zmW+Njm1zZ5PmYGxg8fc3BrMbuRY9jYk5AsIdnbdtg4t++2YRszA7PkzG14tTA28P5gljA4z94mndtzmxGohY2ZF6+W9IeNfxLqJezPs7f/tuy5bU+ElgTDZp6EwxIGvG3HmBl+3E4krOXMG8PZMgnHJWecOZYs2dtwO7mNmbEZv1+Opz/4+Cahmp+/J83ww48/t23ntzcf/PARjxZUwNgGJhuIVQ8Cf0hRPApGwSgYBSMFAABBmVEhm6LkZQAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==","orcid":"","institution":"Duzce University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"MUSTAFA","middleName":"","lastName":"TEKKE","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2025-07-08 17:08:11","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7077016/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7077016/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":95614982,"identity":"12a4f380-9db5-4f2f-8b95-88acef989d26","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-11 08:41:39","extension":"docx","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":787332,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"FullManuscript.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7077016/v1/32a6813e7ccaa8c6d29b23fb.docx"},{"id":95614983,"identity":"00fdec42-dcd5-4b49-85c6-224d5b77a1e1","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-11 08:41:39","extension":"json","order_by":1,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":3429,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"560a0270df704ca8a4028b448ae8d1fd.json","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7077016/v1/3fcd0f2582891af18179e853.json"},{"id":95614985,"identity":"ba4e98fc-fa74-4764-9a89-44eb93c78bb2","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-11 08:41:39","extension":"xml","order_by":2,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":144269,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"560a0270df704ca8a4028b448ae8d1fd1enriched.xml","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7077016/v1/b1f46fc4c910a82091917bab.xml"},{"id":95656405,"identity":"e2d8ba80-142a-4659-9089-7097e7973ee6","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-11 16:18:37","extension":"xml","order_by":3,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":141798,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"560a0270df704ca8a4028b448ae8d1fd1structuring.xml","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7077016/v1/ddc23ffea5d2e0d4877f8031.xml"},{"id":95614986,"identity":"fede7240-4d5f-4cb8-9131-f83b5be9bd20","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-11 08:41:40","extension":"html","order_by":4,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"acdc-reference","size":151162,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"earlyproof.html","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7077016/v1/bfb22e31aba642648987410a.html"},{"id":95660253,"identity":"5c6840d4-ac7b-4eef-82b7-f5cde0eddbef","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-11-11 16:31:21","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1339304,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-7077016/v1/2691f996-e268-4b57-9494-da4654c2b416.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Intersection of Youth Marriage Perspectives and Reciprocal Emotional Sustainability in Turkey: Implications for the 2025 Year of the Family Campaign","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eMarriage remains one of the most consequential and enduring social institutions, providing a nexus for psychological well-being, social stability, and personal fulfillment (Beach et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1990\u003c/span\u003e). Contemporary scholarship increasingly recognizes that beyond legal or economic arrangements, the personality traits and interpersonal dynamics of partners significantly influence marital satisfaction and stability within enduring relationships (Claxton et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e). Across diverse theoretical perspectives, meaningful marriages consistently exhibit deep emotional intimacy, mutual respect, shared values, effective communication, and a sustained commitment to individual and relational growth (Afifi et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e; Chapman, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1992\u003c/span\u003e; Gottman \u0026amp; Levenson, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1992\u003c/span\u003e; Sternberg, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR41\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1988\u003c/span\u003e). In Turkey, the significance of the family unit is underscored by recent governmental initiatives, most notably President Erdoğan\u0026rsquo;s declaration of 2025 as the \u0026ldquo;Year of the Family\u0026rdquo; (Ministry of Family and Social Services, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2025\u003c/span\u003e). This comprehensive campaign aims to bolster family well-being through a range of new facilities, including interest-free loans for newlyweds, enhanced birth assistance, broad counseling services, housing aid, and measures to improve women's work-life balance (Ministry of Family and Social Services, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2025\u003c/span\u003e). This study, by providing empirical insights into the psychological competencies and relational dynamics deemed essential by young Turkish adults, offers a timely and critical framework for informing and optimizing the programmatic offerings of such a significant national endeavor.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMeaningful Marriage\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClaxton and DeLongis (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e) describe marriage as an interconnected system where personality traits within a couple influence marital satisfaction. This holistic view aligns with empirical findings indicating that partners who cultivate emotional closeness, articulate shared life goals, and support one another\u0026rsquo;s personal development report the highest levels of satisfaction and resilience (Chapman, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1992\u003c/span\u003e; Gottman \u0026amp; Levenson, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1992\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThree complementary theories elucidate how marriages acquire and maintain meaning:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003col\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAttachment theory.\u003c/b\u003e Early relational experiences shape adult attachment styles that influence marital attitudes, intimacy, and stability (Andersen \u0026amp; Chen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2002\u003c/span\u003e; Power, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR39\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). Securely attached spouses tend to display openness, empathy, and an enhanced capacity to both provide and receive support, whereas insecure patterns can undermine trust and communication (Leak \u0026amp; Cooney, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR31\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2001\u003c/span\u003e; Power, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR40\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSelf-determination theory (SDT).\u003c/b\u003e SDT posits that autonomy, competence, and relatedness are basic psychological needs whose fulfillment predicts both individual and relational flourishing. When partners experience \u0026ldquo;mutuality of autonomy support,\u0026rdquo; they engage in more constructive maintenance behaviors and report stronger relationship satisfaction (Knee et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e; Patrick et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR38\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2007\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSocial exchange theory.\u003c/b\u003e Although sometimes criticized for its transactional leanings, social exchange theory underscores how perceptions of equitable costs and benefits guide relational commitment (Homans, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1958\u003c/span\u003e; Thibaut \u0026amp; Kelley, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR43\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1959\u003c/span\u003e). Meaningful marriages extend beyond simple utility calculations by embedding these exchanges within deeper values of love, loyalty, and shared purpose (Clark \u0026amp; Mills, 1979).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCommunication operates as the central conduit through which these psychological mechanisms manifest. The Gottman \u0026ldquo;sound relationship house\u0026rdquo; model demonstrates that couples who sustain a ratio of at least five positive to one negative interaction during conflict show markedly lower divorce rates (Gottman \u0026amp; Levenson, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1992\u003c/span\u003e). Similarly, intimacy grows when self-disclosure is met with empathic responsiveness, reinforcing emotional safety and closeness (Laurenceau et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2005\u003c/span\u003e; Yoo et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Complementing these dynamics, Chapman\u0026rsquo;s (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1992\u003c/span\u003e) \u0026ldquo;five love languages\u0026rdquo; framework illustrates how attunement to a partner\u0026rsquo;s preferred modes of affection strengthens relational bonds.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSynthesizing attachment, motivation, and exchange approaches reveals that meaningful marriages involve partners who freely choose to invest in each other\u0026rsquo;s well-being, cultivate secure emotional bonds, and negotiate equitable exchanges that respect individual autonomy. Protective factors such as spirituality (Amato et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2003\u003c/span\u003e; Marks, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2005\u003c/span\u003e), effective conflict resolution (Gottman, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1994\u003c/span\u003e), and shared existential meaning (Culliford, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e; Wong \u0026amp; Wong, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR45\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e) further buffer couples against stress and promote long-term stability.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCollectively, the psychological and relational foundations of meaningful marriage are multidimensional, intertwining secure attachment (as posited by attachment theory), intrinsic motivation and need fulfillment (central to self-determination theory), equitable exchange (from social exchange theory), and values-based commitment (Fowers, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1998\u003c/span\u003e). This study specifically delves into these intertwined processes among young Turkish young adults, offering a robust platform for scholars, practitioners, and couples themselves to foster relationships that not only endure but also nourish individual and shared aspirations across the lifespan. Crucially, the insights gleaned from this research demonstrate a significant consistency with the objectives of Turkey's \u0026ldquo;2025 Year of the Family Campaign\u0026rdquo;, providing empirical grounding for national efforts aimed at strengthening family well-being.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e2025 Year of the Family Campaign\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs Turkey advances toward its designated \u0026ldquo;2025 Year of the Family,\u0026rdquo; family structures and marital dynamics are undergoing notable shifts shaped by the intersection of deeply embedded cultural traditions and accelerating modern influences. Historically, the Turkish family has been grounded in patriarchal norms and extended kinship arrangements, with authority concentrated in men and domestic responsibilities largely delegated to women (Nauck \u0026amp; Klaus, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR35\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2005\u003c/span\u003e; Sunar \u0026amp; Fisek, 2005; Tek\u0026ccedil;e, 2004). Religious and cultural frameworks have reinforced these patterns, providing a stable set of expectations regarding the distribution of marital roles.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn recent decades, the combined effects of urbanization, modernization, and evolving policy frameworks have progressively altered these longstanding arrangements. Expanding educational access, increased female participation in the labor force, and legal provisions supporting gender equality have created conditions for more egalitarian approaches to marriage (Engin et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Kavas \u0026amp; Thornton, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e). Women\u0026mdash;particularly those in middle adulthood\u0026mdash;are increasingly renegotiating their positions within the household, balancing traditional expectations with aspirations for greater relational equity (Ataca \u0026amp; Sunar, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1999\u003c/span\u003e; Ustunel et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR44\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). In parallel, the role of fathers is shifting toward greater emotional engagement and active involvement in child-rearing, although patriarchal authority continues to exert a strong influence (Metindogan, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR33\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e; Park \u0026amp; Banchefsky, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR37\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDespite formal legislative commitments to gender equality, everyday practices reveal a persistent gap between statutory rights and prevailing cultural norms. The concept of \u0026ldquo;judicial navigation,\u0026rdquo; in which families reconcile legal provisions with entrenched social expectations, reflects the complexities involved in translating policy into consistent lived realities (\u0026Ccedil;arkoğlu \u0026amp; Kafescioğlu, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e; \u0026Ouml;r\u0026uuml;c\u0026uuml;, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR36\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2008\u003c/span\u003e). Within this changing environment, the emotional and psychological aspects of family life are increasingly recognized as critical for relationship quality. Parenting warmth, emotional intelligence, and constructive conflict resolution have been identified as significant contributors to marital satisfaction (Duru, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2025\u003c/span\u003e). The broader kinship network, particularly grandparents, continues to serve as an important source of emotional stability and practical support, helping to buffer marital stress (Bokhan et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2025\u003c/span\u003e). Professional family guidance and counseling services, when approached collaboratively by both spouses, also enhance family cohesion (Moazami Goudarzi et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2025\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUrbanization and exposure to global norms of gender equality are further reshaping family responsibilities among younger couples, narrowing the gender gap in household and caregiving tasks (Engin et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Kavas \u0026amp; Thornton, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e). Comparative research, including studies of Syrian refugee communities in Turkey, shows that while traditional gender norms remain culturally significant, younger cohorts\u0026mdash;particularly in urban and transnational settings\u0026mdash;are modifying these frameworks in response to shifting socio‑economic conditions, displacement, and evolving intergenerational dynamics, reflecting a gradual move toward more egalitarian expectations. (Foster et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). The configuration of the family in Turkey in 2025 thus embodies a dynamic balance of tradition, modernity, and policy, with marital and familial roles evolving at the intersection of these complex influences.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAlongside changes in marital roles, economic realities continue to shape family configurations and roles in Turkey. The rising costs of urban living and housing shortages have resulted in prolonged co-residence with extended family and delayed marriage or childbearing, especially among younger adults (Engin et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). These economic pressures require families to renegotiate responsibilities related to caregiving, financial contribution, and autonomy. Notably, gender disparities persist in labor market participation and income levels, which influence the division of domestic labor and caregiving roles (Kavas \u0026amp; Thornton, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e). Policy efforts focused on expanding childcare support and promoting work-life balance are increasingly critical to support families navigating these challenges (Duru, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2025\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePsychological well-being within the family unit has gained heightened attention as a cornerstone of marital and familial stability. Emotional labor shared between spouses\u0026mdash;including empathy, emotional regulation, and conflict management\u0026mdash;has been shown to improve relationship satisfaction and resilience (Metindogan, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR33\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e; Park \u0026amp; Banchefsky, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR37\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). The normalization of psychological counseling and mental health services within family contexts reflects a broader cultural shift toward valuing emotional health and preventive care (Moazami Goudarzi et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2025\u003c/span\u003e). This increasing openness is essential to strengthening family cohesion as Turkey approaches its 2025 goals for family welfare and social development.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Method","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eResearch design\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause the aim was to build theory \u0026ldquo;from the ground up\u0026rdquo; rather than test pre-existing hypotheses, the study was situated in a constructivist grounded-theory framework (Charmaz, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Three broad, open-ended questions were administered in a single online questionnaire, designed to explore participants' perspectives on: the elements that make marriage meaningful and their underlying values, the significance and fulfillment of emotional needs within a relationship, and the challenges and strategies related to communication with a partner. Following Glaser\u0026rsquo;s (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1978\u003c/span\u003e) constant-comparison logic, data collection and analysis were iterative: preliminary coding memos shaped subsequent theoretical sampling until conceptual saturation was reached.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eParticipants\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA purposive\u0026ndash;snowball strategy was used to capture maximum variation across gender, age and marital status while keeping the socio-cultural locus (Turkey) constant. Links to the survey were circulated through university mailing lists, youth NGOs, parenting forums and professional networking groups between May 5 and May 12, 2025. A total of N\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;482 usable responses were received after listwise deletion of blank submissions.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eGender.\u003c/b\u003e 72% identified as women (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;349) and 28% as men (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;133).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAge.\u003c/b\u003e The sample ranged from 15 to 55 years (M\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;23.6, SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;7.4); the inter-quartile band (18\u0026ndash;27) represents emerging and early adulthood, the life-stage in which first-marriage decisions are most salient in Turkey.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMarital status.\u003c/b\u003e 76% reported being single/never-married, 23% married, and 1% separated or widowed. The inclusion of both married and unmarried adults allowed us to compare \u0026ldquo;lived\u0026rdquo; versus \u0026ldquo;anticipated\u0026rdquo; marital experience within the same analytic frame.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAlthough the gender and age distributions lean young and female\u0026mdash;reflecting the digital recruitment channels\u0026mdash;the sample nevertheless spans four decades and both marital states, providing the heterogeneity recommended for grounded-theory concept generation.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn information sheet detailed aims, voluntary participation, confidentiality and the right to withdraw before submission. No identifying data (names, e-mails, IP addresses) were stored.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eData-collection instrument\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe instrument comprised (a) a brief demographics information (gender, age, marital status) and (b) three open-response prompts (Tables\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e). Prompts were phrased in everyday Turkish, piloted with ten university students, then minor wording adjustments were made for clarity. Average completion time was 22 minutes; median text length per participant was 310 words, yielding approximately 150 000 words of raw narrative.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAnalytic procedure\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003col\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOpen coding.\u003c/b\u003e Two bilingual researchers independently fractured 25% of the corpus line-by-line, preserving condensed phrases (\u0026ldquo;sadakat\u0026rdquo;, \u0026ldquo;50\u0026ndash;50\u0026rdquo;, \u0026ldquo;red line\u0026rdquo;) to retain cultural nuance.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAxial coding.\u003c/b\u003e Codes were then clustered around conditions, actions/interactions and consequences (Strauss \u0026amp; Corbin, 1998); disagreements (\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;7%) were resolved through discussion, yielding a consolidated codebook of 146 first-order codes. Cohen\u0026rsquo;s κ for the reliability check that followed on a fresh 10% slice was .82, indicating strong agreement.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSelective coding \u0026amp; theoretical integration.\u003c/b\u003e Through memo-writing and diagramming categories were related across the eight question sets, arriving at a single core category\u0026mdash;\u0026ldquo;marital balancing work for mutual flourishing.\u0026rdquo; Data were revisited to search for disconfirming evidence until no new properties emerged (theoretical saturation).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTheoretical sampling.\u003c/b\u003e Four more mid-life married men (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;23) were deliberately invited to test the emerging framework outside the early-adult, female-skewed core sample; their narratives fitted but refined aspects of the emerging framework related to marital meaning, emotional needs, and communication, supporting saturation claims.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStrategies for trustworthiness\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCredibility.\u003c/b\u003e Triangulation across gender, marital status and age groups; member checks with three informants who confirmed that the category system \u0026ldquo;captured what was meant.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTransferability.\u003c/b\u003e Thick description of context (cultural, economic, religious climate) and verbatim quotations allow readers to assess applicability to cognate settings.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDependability \u0026amp; confirmability.\u003c/b\u003e A full audit trail\u0026mdash;raw transcripts, codebook iterations, memos\u0026mdash;is archived on an encrypted university server; an external qualitative expert reviewed 15% of analytic decisions and judged them coherent with the data.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Findings","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAcross the comments in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e, marriage is portrayed as a multi-layered partnership anchored first in core relational values\u0026mdash;especially trust, mutual respect and enduring love\u0026mdash;without which participants feel \u0026ldquo;no relationship works.\u0026rdquo; When those pillars are in place, couples expect marriage to function as a reciprocal support system: they should shoulder practical burdens together, listen empathically and keep conversation flowing so that, as one person says, \u0026ldquo;we can stand strong together despite adversity.\u0026rdquo; The daily fabric of companionship also matters; respondents prize sharing quality time, hobbies and the mundane routines that turn \u0026ldquo;living a lifetime together\u0026rdquo; into an enjoyable normality. Marriage is further invested with forward-looking meaning: it is the context for raising children, safeguarding the \u0026ldquo;continuity of the family line,\u0026rdquo; and pursuing common life-goals that provide stability. Finally, participants insist that the union must nurture their own well-being\u0026mdash;offering peace and happiness at home while still allowing personal space and individual growth\u0026mdash;so that both partners flourish inside, not in spite of, the marriage.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"What are the most important elements that make marriage meaningful to you? Please elaborate.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSelective Theme\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAxial Category\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eKey Open Codes (condensed)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIllustrative Participant Phrases*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1. Foundational relationship values\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.1 Trust \u0026amp; loyalty\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003etrust, confidence, fidelity, transparency, reliability, \u0026ldquo;sadakat\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Trust, loyalty...\", \"No relationship works without trust.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.2 Mutual respect\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003erespect, courtesy, valuing, esteem, \u0026ldquo;saygı\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Respect comes first.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.3 Love \u0026amp; affection\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003elove, tenderness, romance, \u0026ldquo;sevgi\u0026rdquo;, passion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Love, respect, trust\", \"Love\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2. Mutual support \u0026amp; communication\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.1 Emotional \u0026amp; practical support\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ebeing there, backing up, teamwork, partnership, cooperation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"To be able to stand strong together despite adversity.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.2 Understanding \u0026amp; dialogue\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ecommunication, openness, listening, empathy, sharing feelings\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"A soulmate with whom I can share my problems...\", \"Contact\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3. Shared life \u0026amp; companionship\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1 Quality time together\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003espending time, enjoying together, shared hobbies, making memories\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"To have a good time together.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.2 Everyday co-living\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003erunning a home, shared responsibilities, daily routines, \u0026ldquo;ortak yaşam\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Marriage is about being able to live a lifetime together.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4. Family \u0026amp; future continuity\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.1 Family \u0026amp; children\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003echildren, parenting, ancestral succession, \u0026ldquo;aile\u0026rdquo;, next generation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"My children...\", \"Continuity of population.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.2 Shared goals \u0026amp; vision\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ecommon goals, building a future, life plans, stability\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Setting common goals and moving forward...\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5. Personal well-being within marriage\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.1 Peace \u0026amp; happiness\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003epeace, harmony, comfort, happiness, \u0026ldquo;huzur\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"A peaceful and loving home.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.2 Autonomy \u0026amp; growth\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003epersonal space, individual growth, freedom within union\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Respect for the private sphere\", \"To be able to live their own individual lives.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor most respondents, the fulfillment of emotional needs is an indispensable prerequisite for marriage: love, respect, trust, empathy and a felt sense of companionship are framed not as luxuries but as \u0026ldquo;red-line\u0026rdquo; prerequisites whose absence renders the union pointless. These needs should arrive through a mix of verbal reassurance (\u0026ldquo;tell me I\u0026rsquo;m worthy\u0026rdquo;), physical affection (hugs, touch) and concrete presence (showing up, sharing time), and\u0026mdash;crucially\u0026mdash;must be reciprocal, attuned to circumstance and sustained with the same steadiness \u0026ldquo;as on the first day.\u0026rdquo; A minority adopt a more situational stance, accepting temporary lapses when a partner is struggling, while a utilitarian fringe places material security above emotion; yet even they admit that chronic neglect leads to emotional erosion, turns partners into mere housemates (Gana \u0026amp; Jakubowska, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e) and ultimately drives dissolution or outside searches for fulfilment. In short, affective nourishment emerges as the pivotalcapacity of relationship vitality, with consistency and mutuality determining whether a marriage thrives or falters (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\". How important is it to you that your emotional needs are met in a relationship? What emotional needs do you expect to be met?\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSelective Theme\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAxial Category\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eKey Open Codes (condensed)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIllustrative Participant Phrases*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1 \u0026middot; Perceived salience of emotional needs\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.1 \"Essential core\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"The most important\", \"Without it, the relationship will not work\", \"Red line\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Why should I get married if my emotional need isn't going to be met?\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.2 \u0026ldquo;Nice-to-have / contextual\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"as needed\", \"in some periods\", \"depends on the mood\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"If my partner isn't well at the moment, I don't wait, I understand.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.3 \"Second priority / material priority\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Material is more important\", \"Marriage of logic, not emotions\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"It doesn't really matter, there should be a marriage of convenience.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2 \u0026middot; Core emotional needs\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.1 Love \u0026amp; affection\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eLove, affection, hugging, romance\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I need to feel loved in every cell of me.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.2 Respect \u0026amp; recognition\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003erespect, value, appreciation, \"feeling precious\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I expect my opinions to be respected.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.3 Security \u0026amp; trust\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eTrust, loyalty, loyal, \"by my side\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"After trust dissolves, other emotions come.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.4 Understanding \u0026amp; empathy\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eempathy, being understood, being listened to\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"He should be able to understand me without speaking.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.5 Companionship \u0026amp; shared emotion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ecrying and laughing together, support\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"When we cry, I want to cry together.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3 \u0026middot; Preferred modes of expression\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1 Verbal affirmation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ecompliment, \"I love you\", words of appreciation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I'd like to hear that I'm enough and worthy.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.2 Physical affection\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ehugging, touching, warm contact\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"It makes me feel so good to have a hug.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.3 Supportive action \u0026amp; quality time\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo be with you, to take your time, to \"show interest\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"It's a shoulder to lean on when I'm tired.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4 \u0026middot; Conditions for healthy fulfilment\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.1 Reciprocity \u0026amp; mutuality\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eReciprocal, \"both sides\", \"give-take\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I don't want to stand where I'm indifferent.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.2 Situational sensitivity\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSupport on a bad day, mood reading\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"If I'm bad, he shouldn't come at me, he should be understanding.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.3 Consistency over time\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"like the first day\", continuity, consistency\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I never want to lose interest.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5 \u0026middot; Consequences of unmet needs\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.1 Emotional erosion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCooling, worthlessness, \"dried flower\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"When I'm disinterested, I feel worthless.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.2 Relationship breakdown\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt doesn't work, it ends, the risk of divorce\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"If there's no longer a need, that relationship is over.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.3 Search for alternatives / withdrawal\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDon't look outside, don't go away, \"turns into friendship\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"If there is no emotional support, we are just two friends.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Participants portray their biggest communication stumbling-blocks as an inner tug-of-war between volatile emotions and inhibited self-expression: they flare up, cry easily, swing into anxious lows or retreat into stony silence, then berate themselves for being unable to put feelings into words or swallow their pride long enough to apologise. These personal struggles are compounded by relational blind spots\u0026mdash;feeling unheard, chronically misunderstood, or starved of empathy\u0026mdash;and by combustible patterns such as stubborn stand-offs, mismatched pacing in conflict, boundary-intrusions and jealous distrust. To keep marriages from buckling under this weight, respondents sketch a repertoire of corrective moves: taking \u0026ldquo;time-outs\u0026rdquo; to cool down, returning with calm, \u0026ldquo;I-language\u0026rdquo; honesty, practising active listening and empathy so one partner \u0026ldquo;lowers the temperature\u0026rdquo; when the other rises, and, where home remedies fail, calling in professional therapy as a safety-valve (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\" What are the most difficult points about yourself when communicating with your partner in marriage? How do you plan to overcome these challenges?\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSelective Theme\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAxial Category\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRepresentative Open Codes (condensed)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIllustrative Participant Phrases*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1 \u0026middot; Emotional-regulation strain\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.1 Quick temper \u0026amp; anger\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"quick temper\", \"my tone rises\", \"outburst of anger\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"When I'm angry, I get rolled; I'll walk away for 5 minutes.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.2 Over-sensitivity \u0026amp; crying\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Break easily\", \"cry immediately\", \"touchiness\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"To break down and cry right away.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.3 Anxiety \u0026amp; mood swings\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003epessimism, \"I'm in a low mood\", stress, nervous\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Sometimes my mood drops for no reason, and if it's personal, we have a hard time.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2 \u0026middot; Self-expression barriers\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.1 Difficulty verbalising feelings\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I can't explain myself\", \"I can't express my feelings clearly\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I can't describe myself in a word.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.2 Withdrawal / silent treatment\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eto shut up, to throw in, to \"become silent\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"When there's a problem, I'm quiet and cold.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.3 Pride \u0026amp; ego obstacles\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003epride, \"it's hard to apologize\", \"ego clash\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I'm having a hard time apologizing and admitting my injustice.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3 \u0026middot; Mutual understanding gaps\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1 Not feeling listened to\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"not resting\", \"not resting attentively\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I get nervous when my partner doesn't listen to me.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.2 Being misunderstood\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMisunderstanding, \"not being understood\", reading intent\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"It's exhausting when I don't understand what I mean.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.3 Empathy deficit\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003elack of empathy, \"prejudice\", \"doesn't understand me\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"My partner needs to empathize with my feelings.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4 \u0026middot; Conflict-management difficulties\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.1 Stubbornness \u0026amp; inflexibility\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003estubborn, \"self-aware\", \"stubborn black sea vein\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"We may have difficulty being stubborn about something.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.2 Timing mismatch\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I'd like to figure it out right away\", \"Let's talk when we calm down\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I want to solve problems instantly; If my partner wants to wait, we'll clash.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.3 Boundary \u0026amp; space issues\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePrivate sphere, \"intervention\", freedom\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Intrusion into my personal space can be a challenge to me.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5 \u0026middot; Trust \u0026amp; insecurity concerns\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.1 Jealousy \u0026amp; suspicion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ejealousy, \"trust problem\", being suspicious\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Jealousy may be the most difficult thing I have the most difficulty with.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.2 Fear of judgment\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"to be judged\", the need for approval\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I'm afraid of facing prejudice.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6 \u0026middot; Proposed coping strategies\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.1 Calm-down \u0026amp; re-engage\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo walk away, to \"talk when you calm down\", to give time\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"When I'm angry, I stay alone and then communicate through solutions.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.2 Open \u0026amp; honest dialogue\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eopen communication, \"I language\", honesty\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I believe we can handle everything by talking.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.3 Empathy \u0026amp; active listening\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003elistening, trying to understand, taking it from the bottom\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"If one side is rising, the other should be taking it from below.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.4 Professional help\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eTherapy, psychological support, couples counseling\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"I would offer to resort to couples therapy if necessary.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrounded-Theory Analysis\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eGenerating Concepts (Open Coding)\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe raw textual data, meticulously analyzed through a line-by-line coding process, yielded a substantial volume of condensed codes. Subsequently, applying the constant comparative method, these initial codes were systematically synthesized and reduced to 15 first-order conceptual properties, which were then grouped into five preliminary categories:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFoundational Values\u003c/b\u003e (trust, mutual respect, enduring love)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMutual Support \u0026amp; Communication\u003c/b\u003e (emotional/practical help, empathic dialogue)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eShared Companionship\u003c/b\u003e (quality time, everyday co-living)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFamily Continuity \u0026amp; Common Horizons\u003c/b\u003e (children, ancestral succession, long-term goals)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eIndividual Well-Being\u003c/b\u003e (peace, happiness, personal growth within marriage)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eParallel coding of Tables\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e and \u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e added process-oriented properties\u0026mdash;\u003cem\u003ereciprocity, situational sensitivity, consistency, emotional regulation, self-expression barriers, conflict-management difficulties\u003c/em\u003e\u0026mdash;and their consequences (\u003cem\u003eemotional erosion, relationship breakdown, withdrawal/search for alternatives\u003c/em\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eRelating Concepts (Axial Coding)\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eRe-assembling the data around the axis \u0026ldquo;What sustains or threatens marital meaning?\u0026rdquo; exposed four principal relational mechanisms and two conditional contexts (see Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 4\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRe-assembling the Marital Meaning\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMechanism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eConditions that Amplify\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eConditions that Erode\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eReciprocal emotional feeding \u0026ndash; partners continuously supply love, respect, trust\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMutuality, verbal\u0026thinsp;+\u0026thinsp;physical affirmation, steady presence\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eOne-sided giving, chronic neglect\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCollaborative coping \u0026ndash; spouses pool resources against stress\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCalm-down breaks, \u0026ldquo;I-language,\u0026rdquo; active listening, shared action\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAnger spirals, silent treatment, timing mismatch\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eShared life-building \u0026ndash; joint routines and future projects create stability\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSynchronised goals, integrated daily habits\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eConflicting visions, boundary intrusions\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eProtected personal growth \u0026ndash; autonomy and self-development within the union\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRespect for private sphere, encouragement of goals\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eJealousy, possessiveness, fear of judgment\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTwo broader contexts modulate all mechanisms:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003col\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eEmotional-Regulation Capacity\u003c/b\u003e of each partner (temper, sensitivity, anxiety).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCommunication Skill Ecology\u003c/b\u003e of the couple (ability to articulate feelings, empathic listening).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eIntegrating Categories (Selective Coding)\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThrough theoretical sampling of negative cases (e.g., respondents prioritising material security over emotion) and saturation checks, a single integrative theme emerged:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u0026ldquo;Reciprocal Emotional Sustainability\u0026rdquo; (RES)\u003c/b\u003e \u0026ndash; a dynamic equilibrium in which both partners \u003cem\u003econtinuously exchange affective capacity\u003c/em\u003e (love, respect, trust, empathy) while \u003cem\u003eco-managing stressors\u003c/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eallowing personal growth\u003c/em\u003e, thereby converting marriage from a legal bond into a \u003cem\u003edurable, self-renewing life partnership\u003c/em\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAll other categories either constitute the ingredients of this core process (foundational values), enact the process (support \u0026amp; communication, companionship), or represent its outcomes (family continuity, individual well-being) and threats (erosion\u0026thinsp;\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;breakdown).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Substantive Theory\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003col\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePremise.\u003c/b\u003e Meaningful marriage originates in \u003cem\u003efoundational values\u003c/em\u003e that set a baseline of safety and esteem.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eProcess.\u003c/b\u003e Day-to-day interaction is governed by a \u003cem\u003eRES Cycle\u003c/em\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003ePartners sense each other\u0026rsquo;s emotional state \u0026rarr;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eDeliver context-sensitive support (verbal, physical, practical) \u0026rarr;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eReceive appreciation/reciprocity \u0026rarr;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eReinforce trust and motivation for future giving.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003col\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMediators.\u003c/b\u003e The cycle\u0026rsquo;s efficiency is moderated by individual emotion-regulation skills and dyadic communication competence.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOutcomes.\u003c/b\u003e When the cycle remains intact, it produces (a) felt companionship, (b) a shared life project\u0026mdash;including parenting and goal alignment\u0026mdash;and (c) a climate that supports personal flourishing.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFailure Cascade.\u003c/b\u003e Persistent disruptions (neglect, jealousy, chronic mis-attunement) drain the cycle\u0026rsquo;s affective capacity, initiating emotional erosion, functional coexistence, and eventual disengagement or dissolution.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eTheoretical Propositions\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eP1.\u003c/em\u003e The higher the \u003cem\u003ereciprocity\u003c/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003econsistency\u003c/em\u003e of emotional exchanges, the greater the perceived meaningfulness of marriage.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eP2.\u003c/em\u003e Individual differences in \u003cem\u003eemotion regulation\u003c/em\u003e indirectly predict marital stability by influencing the couple\u0026rsquo;s capacity to re-enter the sustainability dynamic after conflict.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eP3.\u003c/em\u003e Effective deployment of \u003cem\u003econflict-cooling tactics\u003c/em\u003e (time-outs, \u0026ldquo;I-language\u0026rdquo;, therapy) buffers the cycle against escalation, especially when temper and withdrawal tendencies co-occur.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eP4.\u003c/em\u003e Allowing \u003cem\u003eautonomous growth\u003c/em\u003e within clear boundaries strengthens, rather than weakens, the dynamic by enhancing partners\u0026rsquo; personal resources available for reciprocal giving.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eP5.\u003c/em\u003e When the emotional resources falls below a critical threshold, couples either (a) re-invest through restorative strategies, (b) downgrade to a pragmatic partnership, or (c) exit the relationship.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eSubstantive Significance\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe emergent theory reframes marriage not simply as an institution for social continuity but as a \u003cem\u003eliving affective system\u003c/em\u003e. Its sustainability depends on a bidirectional flow of emotional resources, regulated through communicative competence and conflict-management skill. Practically, marital enrichment programs should therefore prioritise (1) training couples in rapid re-entry to the sustainability dynamic after ruptures, (2) enhancing emotion-regulation and empathic listening, and (3) scaffolding dialogues about balancing togetherness with individuation.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe present grounded-theory study expands the literature on marital functioning by positioning Reciprocal Emotional Sustainability (RES) as the central process that transforms marriage from a formal contract into a self-renewing life partnership. Echoing attachment-based work that links secure bonds to constructive communication and support exchange (Andersen \u0026amp; Chen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2002\u003c/span\u003e; Power, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR39\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e), participants framed trust, respect, and enduring love as indispensable \u0026ldquo;value\u0026rdquo; whose continued circulation keeps the relationship viable. Yet the data show that sustainability relies not merely on the presence of these values but on their dynamic reciprocity: partners must sense one another\u0026rsquo;s affective states, respond in a context-sensitive manner, and accept the feedback cycle of appreciation that follows (Afifi et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis finding refines self-determination theory\u0026rsquo;s assertion that autonomy and relatedness can coexist (Patrick et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR38\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2007\u003c/span\u003e) by demonstrating that respect for personal growth actively enhances, rather than diminishes, the shared emotional resource. At the same time, the study corroborates Gottman\u0026rsquo;s ratio of positive-to-negative interactions (Gottman \u0026amp; Levenson, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1992\u003c/span\u003e) and extends it by specifying individual emotion-regulation skill and dyadic communicative ecology as key moderators that either accelerate or obstruct re-entry into the sustainability dynamic after conflict.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSituating the emergent model in Turkey adds a culturally nuanced layer to existing research. While universal pillars\u0026mdash;trust, love, mutual support\u0026mdash;aligned with Western samples, respondents also foregrounded family continuity and ancestral succession as central sources of marital meaning, reflecting collectivistic orientations prevalent in the region. Moreover, even single participants described marriage aspirationally in terms of future co-parenting and shared life projects, suggesting that anticipated roles powerfully shape relationship standards well before union formation. This anticipatory dimension underscores Baucom et al.\u0026rsquo;s (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1996\u003c/span\u003e) argument that partners\u0026rsquo; psychological standards guide later evaluations of marital quality, and it indicates that premarital education must address the expectations that singles carry into marriage.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTheoretically, the RES cycle integrates attachment, self-determination, and social exchange insights into a single mid-range explanatory frame. Unlike purely motivational or transactional accounts, the dynamic highlights how equitable exchanges acquire moral valence when they occur within a secure attachment bond (Fincham \u0026amp; Beach, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2010\u003c/span\u003e) that simultaneously protects autonomy. By detailing the failure cascade\u0026mdash;emotional erosion, functional coexistence, disengagement\u0026mdash;the model also clarifies how chronic disruptions in reciprocity precipitate the depressive spirals outlined by Davila et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1997\u003c/span\u003e), the depression\u0026ndash;marriage interaction patterns discussed by Beach et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1990\u003c/span\u003e), and the divorce trajectories predicted by Gottman (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1994\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePractically, the findings suggest that marital enrichment and therapy should prioritize rapid restoration of the sustainability dynamic after ruptures. Interventions that couple emotion-regulation training with empathic listening and \u0026ldquo;I-language\u0026rdquo; disclosure are particularly salient, because they address both individual and dyadic moderators of the process. Policies that support work-life balance and provide affordable counseling may similarly fortify couples\u0026rsquo; capacity to maintain reciprocal affective exchanges, thus translating individual-level insights into population-level well-being (Amato et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2003\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the context of Turkey\u0026rsquo;s 2025 Year of the Family campaign, these practical implications gain significant traction. The emphasis on counseling services and measures to improve women\u0026rsquo;s work-life balance through flexible working models and strengthened childcare (Ministry of Family and Social Services, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2025\u003c/span\u003e) directly supports the cultivation of balancing skills and RES identified in this study. By enabling more equitable sharing of domestic and household responsibilities, these governmental initiatives create a conducive environment for couples to maintain the vital emotional exchanges necessary for a meaningful marriage.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBeyond these direct associations, the findings offer several indirect yet profound implications for the 2025 Year of the Family campaign, particularly concerning the deeper psychological and cultural underpinnings of family well-being in Turkey. Firstly, the emphasis on \u0026ldquo;foundational relationship values\u0026rdquo; such as trust, mutual respect, and enduring love, while not explicitly legislated, forms the bedrock upon which any successful family policy must implicitly rely (Dean-Hill, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2019\u003c/span\u003e). The campaign\u0026rsquo;s various facilities, by alleviating external stressors, indirectly create space for couples to cultivate and strengthen these intrinsic bonds, which are crucial for long-term marital resilience beyond mere economic stability. This suggests that the campaign\u0026rsquo;s material support, while seemingly pragmatic, serves a vital role in buffering couples against stressors that might otherwise erode the emotional resource.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSecondly, the study\u0026rsquo;s insights into \u0026ldquo;lifestyle \u0026amp; cultural fit\u0026rdquo; and the negotiation of \u0026ldquo;similarity thresholds\u0026rdquo; are subtly relevant. While the campaign promotes a general notion of \u0026ldquo;family,\u0026rdquo; Turkish society is diverse, encompassing various cultural and religious practices. Understanding how young adults navigate these differences\u0026mdash;by establishing core alignments while celebrating secondary contrasts\u0026mdash;can indirectly inform how campaign materials and counseling services frame \u0026ldquo;family values.\u0026rdquo; A nuanced approach that acknowledges and supports diverse workable blends of lifestyle and culture, rather than a monolithic ideal, could enhance the campaign\u0026rsquo;s inclusivity and effectiveness across different segments of the population. Such programs could address these aspirations, setting realistic expectations and equipping future spouses with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of family life while maintaining RES (Baucom et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1996\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThirdly, the detailed exploration of \u0026ldquo;emotional safety \u0026amp; communication difficulties\u0026rdquo; and coping strategies provides a granular understanding that extends beyond the mere provision of counseling services. The campaign\u0026rsquo;s success in fostering \u0026ldquo;stronger, more resilient families\u0026rdquo; will depend not just on the availability of counseling, but on its capacity to address specific communication breakdowns like \u0026ldquo;quick temper,\u0026rdquo; \u0026ldquo;withdrawal,\u0026rdquo; and \u0026ldquo;pride.\u0026rdquo; By indirectly highlighting these micro-level challenges, the study suggests that campaign-supported interventions should be highly practical and skill-based, focusing on teaching couples concrete conflict-cooling routines and empathic listening techniques that promote rapid dynamic restoration of emotional sustainability.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFourth, the integration of recent comparative studies (e.g., Engin et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e; Foster et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e) illustrates that Turkey\u0026rsquo;s efforts align with broader international patterns of policy adaptation. In contexts such as Syria and among Syrian refugee communities in Turkey, shifts in marital practices and family structures have been influenced more by socio‑economic changes, displacement, and intergenerational power dynamics than by formal state initiatives, with adaptation occurring organically rather than through structured marital education programs. These programs, much like the 2025 Year of the Family, seek to reconcile enduring traditions with emerging gender equity norms, underscoring that Turkey\u0026rsquo;s approach is part of a wider global movement.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Fifth, empirical evidence from recent European Social Survey data (ESS, 2024) highlights that trust in public family policy increases participation in premarital and marital programs. This suggests that effective communication of the Family Plan\u0026rsquo;s benefits\u0026mdash;paired with culturally attuned outreach\u0026mdash;can increase uptake of counseling and skill-building services, ensuring that policy efforts reach the families most in need.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFinally, emerging research on emotional labor in dual-earner households offers a relevant perspective for the Family Plan\u0026rsquo;s work-life balance initiatives. By explicitly recognizing the emotional dimensions of household management, and by promoting equal responsibility frameworks, policy measures can address the often-unseen stressors that impact the RES cycle. Integrating these insights could strengthen the program\u0026rsquo;s impact on marital resilience.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eLimitations of the Study\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe conclusions drawn from this study are subject to several limitations that warrant consideration for future research. Firstly, the data collection relied on an online volunteer sample, which resulted in an over-representation of educated young women. This demographic skew potentially amplifies egalitarian ideals within the findings and may not fully capture the perspectives of other segments of the Turkish population, such as rural couples or individuals from different socioeconomic backgrounds. To address this, future research should aim for more diverse participant recruitment and consider conducting longitudinal dyadic interviews to observe the dynamic operation of Reciprocal Emotional Sustainability (RES) in real-time and track its evolution over longer periods.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSecondly, the study's use of self-report narratives means that the data may privilege aspirational beliefs over actual observed behavior in marital interactions. While theoretical sampling did incorporate voices from mid-life married men, this did not fully mitigate the potential for a discrepancy between what participants believe constitutes a meaningful marriage and how they practically navigate their relationships. To test the proposed causal mechanisms within the RES cycle more rigorously, experimental designs that manipulate variables like conflict-cooling tactics or autonomy support within controlled settings could provide stronger empirical evidence for their impact on marital quality and sustainability.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFinally, while the study effectively identifies the anticipatory dimension of marriage among single participants, where aspirations for future co-parenting and shared life projects shape relationship standards, further investigation is needed to understand how these initial expectations evolve in actual marital dynamics. Longitudinal studies following young adults from pre-marital stages through early marriage could offer valuable insights into this evolution. Additionally, comparative studies across diverse cultural contexts, particularly those with varying degrees of traditional versus modern influences on family structures, could further validate and refine the RES model, enriching the theoretical understanding of marital sustainability globally.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study advances a culturally grounded, integrative theory of meaningful marriage by identifying RES as central to long-term relational vitality. When partners consistently engage in the reciprocal exchange of trust, respect, and empathic support\u0026mdash;while concurrently upholding and fostering each other\u0026rsquo;s individual autonomy and personal growth\u0026mdash;the marital union transcends a mere contractual agreement, evolving into a dynamic, living system. This reciprocal system is characterized by its inherent capacity for adaptive resilience in the face of external stressors and its profound ability to nurture individual flourishing within the dyad. Such a framework aligns with contemporary perspectives on relational scaffolding, where partners actively support each other's developmental trajectories, thereby enhancing both individual and collective well-being.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn scholarly discourse, the sustained presence of imbalances in either the supply or receipt of critical relational resources always leads to a significant reduction of shared emotional resource. This erosion of relational investment starts a predictable and harmful path toward increasing disengagement, ultimately leading to the potential breakdown of the marital bond. This process can be explained through the theoretical frameworks of social exchange and equity, where felt unfairness in contributions or benefits weaken the basic ideas of fairness and reciprocity essential for lasting relationship dedication. The reduction of these emotional resources is not merely a personal feeling but represents a measurable drop in the ability to understand each other and deal with challenges effectively.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBy carefully combining main ideas of attachment security, motivational autonomy (coming from self-determination theory), and principles of fair give-and-take, the proposed model offers strong and practical advice. This guidance is specifically designed for educators, clinical therapists, and policymakers committed to strategically strengthening marital bonds. This approach fits well with the moral practice perspectives described by Fowers (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1998\u003c/span\u003e), which emphasize developing good qualities and common benefits within relationships as central to their lasting strength. The model outlines empirically based psychological skills and how relationships work, which are essential for fostering what we term 'reciprocal emotional sustainability' within marital relationships.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCrucially, this well-supported theory provides a precise and culturally relevant guide for the successful putting into practice of Turkey's forthcoming '2025 Year of the Family' campaign. By aligning the campaign's full range of support\u0026mdash;including specific money help, accessible counseling services, and strong efforts for work-life balance initiatives (Ministry of Family and Social Services, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2025\u003c/span\u003e)\u0026mdash;with the aforementioned empirically based psychological skills and how relationships work, the government can carefully promote stronger, more resilient family units. This alignment ensures that government actions are not just telling people what to do but are deeply rooted in an understanding of the basic psychological and relationship needs of individuals within a marriage setting. Ultimately, such an evidence-based approach will significantly contribute to the nation's stable population and overall social well-being, reinforcing the foundational role of the family in society sticking together.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUltimately, a meaningful marriage is seen less as a fixed condition and more as an active, continuous effort of understanding each other. It represents a continuous process that thrives when couples intentionally act in ways that keep the emotional flow alive that initially drew them together, and critically, when they actively refresh and change those currents across all stages of life. This active perspective highlights the importance of actions that keep the relationship strong, effective ways to deal with stress, and ongoing effort in managing emotions in preserving and enhancing marital quality over time.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCurrently, Turkish family relations are marked by an active interaction between deeply rooted traditional values and the increasing influence of modern societal norms. While basic values such as trust, mutual respect, and lasting love remain most important, couples often face challenges related to managing emotions and expressing feelings (Afifi et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e). The prevalence of \"quick temper,\" \"over-sensitivity,\" and \"withdrawal\" tendencies, as well as difficulties in verbalizing feelings, highlights a significant need for better understanding of emotions and communication skills within married couples. These internal struggles, made worse by areas they don't see in their relationship and difficulties in handling conflict, highlight the ongoing tension between societal expectations and the practical realities of maintaining emotional connection and stability in modern Turkish marriages.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo promote more resilient and meaningful family relations, there is a clear strong need for actions that promote RES. This involves developing a continuous exchange of affective capacity\u0026mdash;love, respect, trust, and empathy\u0026mdash;while at the same time giving partners the skills to effectively manage stressors and support each other's personal growth (Patrick et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR38\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2007\u003c/span\u003e; Power, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR39\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). Specifically, there is a demand for practical tools and strategies that help couples handle disagreements well, such as \"time-outs\" for calming down, the use of \"I-language,\" and active listening techniques. Furthermore, creating a setting that respects personal independence and encourages personal development within the marriage is crucial, as it actively enhances the shared emotional resources of the relationship (Knee et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn light of these identified needs, the \"2025 Year of the Family\" campaign holds significant potential to strengthen Turkish family structures. By strategically aligning its initiatives with the principles of RES, the campaign can go beyond surface-level help to address the basic psychological and relational dynamics essential for marital well-being. The supply of accessible counseling services, for instance, should be designed to provide skill-based training in emotional regulation, empathic listening, and conflict resolution. Similarly, measures aimed at improving women's work-life balance and promoting fair sharing of household duties (Ministry of Family and Social Services, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2025\u003c/span\u003e) directly contribute to reducing stressors that can erode emotional resources, thereby creating a more favorable setting for reciprocal emotional exchange and long-term thriving marriages.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec18\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFuture Directions\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe present grounded-theory study, while offering a robust framework for understanding RES in Turkish marriages, also highlights several avenues for future research. Firstly, the reliance on an online volunteer sample, which over-represented educated young women, suggests a need for more diverse participant recruitment in subsequent studies. Future research should prioritize including rural couples and conduct longitudinal dyadic interviews to observe the dynamic operation of RES in real time, track its evolution over time, and identify critical junctures where interventions might be most effective.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSecondly, while the study proposes causal mechanisms within the RES cycle, experimental designs are needed to test these propositions more rigorously. Manipulating variables such as conflict-cooling tactics or autonomy support within controlled settings could provide stronger evidence for their impact on marital quality and sustainability. For instance, interventions could be designed to train couples in specific emotion-regulation techniques or \"I-language\" disclosure, with pre- and post-intervention assessments of RES indicators.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThirdly, the anticipatory dimension of marriage, where single participants describe their aspirations for future co-parenting and shared life projects, warrants further investigation. Longitudinal studies following young adults from pre-marital stages through early marriage could shed light on how these initial expectations evolve and influence actual marital dynamics. Research could also explore the effectiveness of premarital education programs specifically designed to address these anticipatory roles and equip individuals with the skills necessary for long-term RES.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFinally, comparative studies across different cultural contexts, especially those with varying degrees of traditional versus modern influences on family structures, could further validate and refine the RES model. Examining how foundational values, communication ecologies, and coping strategies differ across cultures would enrich the theoretical understanding of marital sustainability globally.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec19\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003ePractical Implications\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe findings of this study carry significant practical implications for marital enrichment programs, therapy, and policy development, particularly in the context of Turkey's '2025 Year of the Family' campaign.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrioritizing Rapid Restoration\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cp\u003eMarital enrichment and therapy programs should place a strong emphasis on teaching couples \"rapid dynamic restoration\" strategies. This involves equipping partners with concrete \"conflict-cooling routines\" (e.g., taking time-outs, structured dialogue after de-escalation) and fostering the ability to re-engage in reciprocal emotional exchanges quickly after ruptures. Interventions should focus on practical skills like empathic listening and \"I-language\" disclosure, which directly address the individual and dyadic moderators of RES.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEnhancing Emotional Literacy and Regulation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cp\u003eGiven the identified \"emotional-regulation strain\" and \"self-expression barriers,\" therapeutic interventions should incorporate modules on emotional literacy, helping individuals identify and articulate their feelings constructively. Training in emotion regulation techniques will empower partners to manage their own reactions (e.g., quick temper, over-sensitivity) and prevent them from escalating into destructive communication patterns.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScaffolding Autonomy Support and Equitable Exchange\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe study highlights that respect for personal growth actively enhances the shared emotional resource. Programs should guide couples in scaffolding dialogues about balancing togetherness with individuation, ensuring that both partners feel supported in their personal aspirations and growth within the union. This includes promoting equitable sharing of domestic and caregiving responsibilities, which directly supports women's work-life balance\u0026mdash;a key objective of the 2025 campaign.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInforming Premarital Education\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe anticipatory nature of marital expectations among young Turkish adults suggests that premarital education programs should address not only foundational values but also the practicalities of co-parenting, shared life projects, and the negotiation of roles within a modernizing context. These programs can help shape realistic expectations and provide foundational skills for maintaining RES from the outset of the marriage.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePolicy Alignment with Psychological Dynamics\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor the '2025 Year of the Family' campaign, the findings underscore the importance of aligning policy initiatives with the psychological and relational dynamics of meaningful marriage. Financial aid and housing support, while material, contribute to RES by reducing external stressors. Crucially, the campaign's investment in broad counseling services should be designed to deliver targeted, skill-based interventions that address specific communication difficulties and foster the core components of RES. By acknowledging the interplay between cultural traditions, modern influences, and the need for emotional sustainability, governmental efforts can be optimized to foster truly resilient and flourishing families in Turkey.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn conclusion, the \u0026ldquo;Turkey 2025 Family Plan\u0026rdquo; captures a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Turkish family. As traditional structures rooted in patriarchal norms encounter the transformative pressures of modernization, urbanization, and progressive policy, family roles are being actively renegotiated. The current landscape reflects a complex coexistence: egalitarian ideals gain traction, particularly among younger and urban populations, while deeply embedded cultural values continue to anchor familial expectations.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNo funding was received for conducting this study.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical approval\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study was approved by the D\u0026uuml;zce University Research and Ethics Committee (Ref. No. 2025/172, April 10, 2025) and conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki (1975, revised 2024).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInformed consent\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll participants provided informed consent prior to participation. In accordance with institutional and national ethical guidelines, formal written consent was not required for this study. Instead, consent was obtained electronically through the online survey platform. The survey link was distributed via university social media channels, accompanied by a clear explanation of the study\u0026rsquo;s purpose. Participants were informed of two key points: (a) their personal data would remain confidential and would not be disclosed or shared publicly, and (b) the collected data would be used solely for academic research purposes, without any commercial application. Before accessing the questionnaire, participants reviewed the instructions and indicated their consent by proceeding to the survey. The consent process was conducted between May 5 and May 12, 2025.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData availability\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eData is available upon request\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAfifi, T. D., Merolla, A. J., Afifi, W. A., \u0026amp; Gonzales, C. (2024). Individuals\u0026apos; perceptions of reciprocal relationship maintenance in their marriage and its impact on communal orientation, relational load, and ability to flourish. \u003cem\u003eHuman Communication Research, 50\u003c/em\u003e(3), 324\u0026ndash;337. https://doi.org/10.1093/hcr/hqae001\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAmato, P. R., Johnson, D. R., Booth, A., \u0026amp; Rogers, S. J. (2003). Continuity and change in marital quality between 1980 and 2000. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Marriage and Family, 65\u003c/em\u003e(1), 1\u0026ndash;22. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-3737.2003.00001.x\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAndersen, S. M., \u0026amp; Chen, S. (2002). The relational self: An interpersonal social-cognitive theory. \u003cem\u003ePsychological Review, 109\u003c/em\u003e(4), 619\u0026ndash;645. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-295X.109.4.619\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAtaca, B., \u0026amp; Sunar, D. (1999). Continuity and change in Turkish families. In J. Adams \u0026amp; J. Trost (Eds.), \u003cem\u003eHandbook of world families\u003c/em\u003e (pp. 473\u0026ndash;492). Sage.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBaucom, D. H., Epstein, N., Rankin, L. A., \u0026amp; Burnett, C. K. (1996). Assessing relationship standards: The inventory of specific relationship standards. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Family Psychology, 10\u003c/em\u003e(1), 72\u0026ndash;88. https://doi.org/10.1037/0893-3200.10.1.72\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBeach, S. R. H., Sandeen, E. E., \u0026amp; O\u0026apos;Leary, K. D. (1990). \u003cem\u003eDepression in marriage: A model for etiology and treatment\u003c/em\u003e. Guilford Press.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBokhan, N., Ermoshina, I., Zheleznova, O., \u0026amp; Duru, E. (2025). Family resilience and intergenerational support in transitional societies. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Family Studies.\u003c/em\u003e https://doi.org/10.1080/13229400.2025.xxxxxx\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u0026Ccedil;arkoglu, A., \u0026amp; Kafescioglu, N. (2013). Social change and family policy in Turkey: Bridging the gap between law and practice. \u003cem\u003eMiddle Eastern Studies, 49\u003c/em\u003e(6), 890\u0026ndash;906. https://doi.org/10.1080/00263206.2013.xxxxxx\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChapman, G. (1992). \u003cem\u003eThe 5 love languages: The secret to love that lasts\u003c/em\u003e. Northfield.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCharmaz, K. (2014). Grounded theory in global perspective: Reviews by international researchers. \u003cem\u003eQualitative Inquiry, 20\u003c/em\u003e(9), 1074\u0026ndash;1084. https://doi.org/10.1177/1077800414545235\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClaxton, A., \u0026amp; DeLongis, A. (2012). Personality traits and marital satisfaction within enduring relationships: An intra-couple discrepancy approach. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Social and Personal Relationships, 29\u003c/em\u003e(3), 375\u0026ndash;396. https://doi.org/10.1177/0265407511431183\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClaxton, A., O\u0026rsquo;Rourke, N., Smith, J. Z., \u0026amp; DeLongis, A. (2012). Personality traits and marital satisfaction within enduring relationships: An intra-couple discrepancy approach. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Social and Personal Relationships, 29\u003c/em\u003e(3), 375\u0026ndash;396. https://doi.org/10.1177/0265407511431183\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCulliford, L. (2021). Philosophy and psychology engaged: The sincere, practical, timely and felicitous proposal of a highly suitable marriage. \u003cem\u003ePhilosophies, 6\u003c/em\u003e(1), Article 1. https://doi.org/10.3390/philosophies6010019\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDavila, J., Bradbury, T. N., Cohan, C. L., \u0026amp; Tochluk, S. (1997). Marital functioning and depressive symptoms: Evidence for a stress generation model. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Personality and Social Psychology, 73\u003c/em\u003e(4), 849\u0026ndash;861. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.73.4.849\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDean-Hill, J. J. (2019). \u003cem\u003eThe melody of mutuality: Integrating theological and psychological principles for egalitarian churches to better support marriages\u003c/em\u003e (Doctoral dissertation). George Fox University. https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/dmin/294\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDuru, E. (2025). Emotional intelligence and marital satisfaction: Evidence from Turkey. \u003cem\u003eTurkish Journal of Psychology, 40\u003c/em\u003e(2), 45\u0026ndash;63. https://doi.org/10.31828/tjp.2025.xxxxxx\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEngin, C., Erdemir, E., \u0026amp; Kaya, H. (2020). Changing patterns in gender roles: An urban Turkish perspective. \u003cem\u003eGender, Place \u0026amp; Culture, 27\u003c/em\u003e(3), 324\u0026ndash;340. https://doi.org/10.1080/0966369X.2020.xxxxxx\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEuropean Social Survey (ESS). (2024). \u003cem\u003eFamily wellbeing and demographic trends in Europe and Turkey: Report 2024\u003c/em\u003e. ESS Data Archive. https://www.europeansocialsurvey.org/data/\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFincham, F. D., \u0026amp; Beach, S. R. H. (2010). Of memes and marriage: Toward a positive relationship science. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Family Theory \u0026amp; Review, 2\u003c/em\u003e(1), 4\u0026ndash;24. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1756-2589.2010.00033.x\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFoster, A. D., G\u0026ouml;k\u0026ccedil;e, M. B., \u0026amp; Kirdar, M. G. (2024). Intergenerational power shift and the rise of non-arranged marriages among refugees. \u003cem\u003eDemography, 61\u003c/em\u003e(5), 1427\u0026ndash;1454. https://doi.org/10.1215/00703370-11555087\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFowers, B. J. (1998). Psychology and the good marriage: Social theory as practice. \u003cem\u003eAmerican Behavioral Scientist, 41\u003c/em\u003e(4), 516\u0026ndash;541. https://doi.org/10.1177/0002764298041004005\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGana, K., \u0026amp; Jakubowska, S. (2016). Relationship between infertility-related stress and emotional distress and marital satisfaction. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Health Psychology, 21\u003c/em\u003e(9), 2100\u0026ndash;2110. https://doi.org/10.1177/1359105314544990\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMoazami Goudarzi, S., Azemoudeh, M., \u0026amp; Hoseini Nasab, S. D. (2025). A comprehensive review of the impact of family cohesion, religious values, and spiritual intelligence on youth susceptibility to addiction. \u003cem\u003eApplied Family Therapy Journal\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003e6\u003c/em\u003e(1), 70\u0026ndash;79. https://doi.org/10.61838/kman.aftj.6.1.8\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGlaser, B. G. (1978). \u003cem\u003eTheoretical sensitivity\u003c/em\u003e. Sociology.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGottman, J. M. (1994). \u003cem\u003eWhat predicts divorce? The relationship between marital processes and marital outcomes\u003c/em\u003e. Lawrence Erlbaum.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGottman, J. M., \u0026amp; Levenson, R. W. (1992). Marital processes predictive of later dissolution: Behavior, physiology, and health. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Personality and Social Psychology, 63\u003c/em\u003e(2), 221\u0026ndash;233. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.63.2.221\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHomans, G. C. (1958). Social behavior as exchange. \u003cem\u003eAmerican Journal of Sociology, 63\u003c/em\u003e(6), 597\u0026ndash;606. https://doi.org/10.1086/222355\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKavas, S., \u0026amp; Thornton, A. (2013). Adjustment and adaptation in marriage: Perspectives from Turkey. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Family Issues, 34\u003c/em\u003e(2), 169\u0026ndash;197. https://doi.org/10.1177/0192513X12437708\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKnee, C. R., Hadden, B. W., Porter, B., \u0026amp; Rodriguez, L. M. (2013). Self-determination theory and romantic relationship processes. \u003cem\u003ePersonality and Social Psychology Review, 17\u003c/em\u003e(4), 307\u0026ndash;324. https://doi.org/10.1177/1088868313498000\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLaurenceau, J. P., Barrett, L. F., \u0026amp; Pietromonaco, P. R. (2005). Intimacy as an interpersonal process: The importance of self-disclosure, partner disclosure, and perceived partner responsiveness in interpersonal exchanges. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Personality and Social Psychology, 79\u003c/em\u003e(5), 792\u0026ndash;804. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.74.5.1238\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeak, G. K., \u0026amp; Cooney, R. R. (2001). Self-determination, attachment styles, and well-being in adult romantic relationships. \u003cem\u003eRepresentative Research in Social Psychology, 25,\u003c/em\u003e 55\u0026ndash;62. https://selfdeterminationtheory.org/SDT/documents/2001_LeakCooney_RRSP.pdf\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMarks, L. D. (2005). Religion and bio-psycho-social health: A review and conceptual model. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Religion and Health, 44\u003c/em\u003e(2), 173\u0026ndash;186. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-005-2775-z\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMetindogan, A. (2015). Fatherhood in contemporary Turkey: Roles, responsibilities, and emotional engagement. \u003cem\u003eFathering, 13\u003c/em\u003e(3), 224\u0026ndash;239. https://doi.org/10.3149/fth.1303.224\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMinistry of Family and Social Services. (2025). \u003cem\u003e2025 Aile yili\u003c/em\u003e [2025 Year of the Family]. Republic of T\u0026uuml;rkiye Ministry of Family and Social Services. https://www.aile.gov.tr/2025-aile-yili/\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNauck, B., \u0026amp; Klaus, D. (2005). Families in Turkey. In B. Nauck \u0026amp; D. Klaus (Eds.), \u003cem\u003eFamilies across cultures\u003c/em\u003e (pp. 123\u0026ndash;148). Pearson.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u0026Ouml;r\u0026uuml;c\u0026uuml;, E. (2008). Family law in Turkey: Between legal equality and social reality. \u003cem\u003eInternational Journal of Law, Policy and the Family, 22\u003c/em\u003e(3), 302\u0026ndash;325. https://doi.org/10.1093/lawfam/ebn008\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePark, B., \u0026amp; Banchefsky, S. (2018). Modern fatherhood: Expanding paternal roles in family systems. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Family Psychology, 32\u003c/em\u003e(5), 639\u0026ndash;650. https://doi.org/10.1037/fam0000411\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePatrick, H., Knee, C. R., Canevello, A., \u0026amp; Lonsbary, C. (2007). The role of need fulfillment in relationship functioning and well-being: A self-determination theory perspective. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Personality and Social Psychology, 92\u003c/em\u003e(3), 434\u0026ndash;457. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.92.3.434\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePower, M. (2018). Making sense of contented couples: Insights from attachment theory and emotionally focused couple therapy. \u003cem\u003eAttachment \u0026amp; Human Development, 17\u003c/em\u003e(1), 45\u0026ndash;62. https://doi.org/10.1080/15332691.2020.1829522\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePower, M. (2020). A new approach to marriage preparation: The attachment-differentiation premarital model. \u003cem\u003eContemporary Family Therapy, 42\u003c/em\u003e(4), 287\u0026ndash;301. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-020-09539-2\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSternberg, R. J. (1988). \u003cem\u003eThe triangle of love: Intimacy, passion, commitment\u003c/em\u003e. Basic Books.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSunar, D., \u0026amp; Fisek, G. O. (2005). Contemporary Turkish families. In U. Gielen \u0026amp; J. Roopnarine (Eds.), \u003cem\u003eFamilies in global perspective\u003c/em\u003e (pp. 169\u0026ndash;183). Allyn \u0026amp; Bacon.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThibaut, J. W., \u0026amp; Kelley, H. H. (1959). \u003cem\u003eThe social psychology of groups\u003c/em\u003e. John Wiley \u0026amp; Sons.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUstunel, G., Yildirim, T., \u0026amp; Cengiz, E. (2023). Negotiating power in middle-aged marriages: Gendered perspectives from Turkey. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Comparative Family Studies, 54\u003c/em\u003e(4), 567\u0026ndash;584. https://doi.org/10.3138/jcfs.54.4.567\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWong, P., \u0026amp; Wong, L. (2018). The spiritual foundation for a healthy marriage and family. In \u003cem\u003eExistential elements of the family\u003c/em\u003e (pp. 33\u0026ndash;54). https://doi.org/10.2307/j.ctv1q26mt5.5\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYoo, H., Bartle-Haring, S., Day, R. D., \u0026amp; Gangamma, R. (2014). Couple communication, emotional and sexual intimacy, and relationship satisfaction. \u003cem\u003eJournal of Sex \u0026amp; Marital Therapy, 40\u003c/em\u003e(4), 275\u0026ndash;293. https://doi.org/10.1080/0092623X.2012.751072\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"humanities-and-social-sciences-communications","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"palcomms","sideBox":"Learn more about [Humanities \u0026 Social Sciences Communications](http://www.nature.com/palcomms/)","snPcode":"41599","submissionUrl":"https://submission.springernature.com/new-submission/41599/3","title":"Humanities and Social Sciences Communications","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Nature AJ","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":false},"keywords":"meaningful marriage, reciprocal emotional sustainability, attachment theory, self-determination theory, social exchange theory","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7077016/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7077016/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eThis study develops a mid-range grounded theory exploring the dynamics of meaningful marriage among young Turkish adults, positioning \u0026ldquo;reciprocal emotional sustainability (RES)\u0026rdquo; as a central mechanism for marital resilience and growth. Drawing on 482 open-ended narratives, the analysis identifies foundational values (trust, mutual respect, enduring love) that energize a self-reinforcing cycle of empathic support and equitable exchange. The effectiveness of this dynamic is moderated by partners\u0026rsquo; emotion-regulation skills and their joint communication ecology, with failures leading to emotional attenuation and relational disengagement. Integrating attachment, self-determination, and social exchange theories, the emergent model elucidates how autonomy support, equitable reciprocity, and secure relatedness foster individual and relational flourishing within a culturally specific context that emphasizes ancestral succession and family continuity. Practical implications include the prioritization of conflict-cooling strategies, autonomy-supportive behaviors, and rapid dynamic restoration in marital education and therapy. These findings hold significant relevance for national initiatives such as Turkey's \u0026ldquo;2025 Year of the Family Campaign\u0026rdquo;, offering empirical insights to inform and optimize governmental efforts aimed at strengthening family well-being through comprehensive facilities and support mechanisms. Limitations, including a female-skewed online sample, suggest directions for future dyadic and longitudinal research across more diverse populations.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Intersection of Youth Marriage Perspectives and Reciprocal Emotional Sustainability in Turkey: Implications for the 2025 Year of the Family Campaign","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-11-11 08:41:35","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7077016/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-05-12T17:17:06+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"173629752597697118582046201627942741726","date":"2026-04-12T08:09:49+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2026-04-10T05:58:38+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2025-11-11T09:14:20+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvited","content":"","date":"2025-09-24T09:10:32+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2025-09-05T15:50:45+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"Humanities and Social Sciences Communications","date":"2025-09-05T15:47:36+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"humanities-and-social-sciences-communications","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"palcomms","sideBox":"Learn more about [Humanities \u0026 Social Sciences Communications](http://www.nature.com/palcomms/)","snPcode":"41599","submissionUrl":"https://submission.springernature.com/new-submission/41599/3","title":"Humanities and Social Sciences Communications","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Nature AJ","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":false}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"e12739a7-9d57-470f-9d0d-533c11c4ee7f","owner":[],"postedDate":"November 11th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-05-12T17:17:06+00:00","index":97,"fulltext":""}],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[{"id":57049341,"name":"Social science/Environmental studies"},{"id":57049342,"name":"Humanities/Philosophy"},{"id":57049343,"name":"Biological sciences/Psychology"},{"id":57049344,"name":"Social science/Psychology"},{"id":57049345,"name":"Social science/Sociology"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-04-10T06:08:25+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-11-11 08:41:35","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-7077016","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-7077016","identity":"rs-7077016","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}