Studying the Relationship between Marital Conflicts and the Five Main Personality Factors of Married Students

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between marital conflicts and the five major personality factors among married students of Islamic Azad University in Qom Province. This study employed a descriptive-correlational design. The statistical population consisted of all married students of Islamic Azad University in Qom Province, totaling 850 individuals. Based on Cochran’s formula, the sample size was estimated at 250 participants; considering possible attrition, 270 participants were selected through convenience sampling. Data collection instruments included the NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI) and the Marital Conflict Questionnaire (MCQ-R). Pearson correlation coefficient and hierarchical multivariate regression analyses were conducted using SPSS-24 software. Inclusion criteria included willingness to participate in the study, while exclusion criteria involved incomplete questionnaires or withdrawal from participation. The correlational findings indicated that neuroticism had a significant positive relationship with marital conflicts, whereas extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness showed significant negative relationships with marital conflicts. Multivariate regression analysis further demonstrated that neuroticism positively predicted marital conflicts (β=0.133, p<0.05), while agreeableness (β=-0.302, p<0.01) and conscientiousness (β=-0.179, p<0.01) negatively predicted marital conflicts. The final regression model explained approximately 40% of the variance in marital conflicts (R²=0.404). The findings suggest that personality traits play a significant role in marital relationship quality and the level of conflict between spouses. Neuroticism may increase the likelihood of marital conflicts, whereas agreeableness and conscientiousness function as protective factors that reduce relational tensions. Therefore, consideration of personality characteristics in premarital counseling, family education programs, and psychological interventions may contribute to strengthening family functioning and reducing marital conflicts.