The Science Behind
The PREPARE/ENRICH assessment is built on an exceptionally strong foundation of empirical research, making it one of the most trusted, validated, and widely used relationship inventories globally. Backed by over 40 years of rigorous research and an immense dataset from more than 4 million couples, its validity and reliability are consistently demonstrated and continually affirmed through ongoing studies.
This extensive research base provides unparalleled insights into relationship dynamics. The program utilizes a normative sample of diverse couples, allowing for highly accurate and personalized results that reflect real-world relationship trends. Each assessment is meticulously crafted and refined based on psychometric principles, ensuring that it reliably measures the critical aspects of couple functioning.
Key research findings consistently highlight the program's profound effectiveness in improving various aspects of couple relationships. Numerous studies, including both quantitative and qualitative analyses, show that couples who actively participate in PREPARE/ENRICH counseling experience significant, measurable gains. These improvements span crucial areas such as communication skills, where couples learn to express needs and feelings more effectively; conflict resolution, transforming disagreements into opportunities for growth; financial management, aligning on monetary goals and habits; intimacy and affection, fostering deeper connection; and overall relationship satisfaction, leading to greater happiness and fulfillment.
Furthermore, longitudinal research has provided compelling evidence that the PREPARE/ENRICH assessment helps significantly reduce the likelihood of divorce. By equipping couples with foundational tools, fostering realistic expectations, and facilitating early intervention on potential challenges, the program empowers them to build lasting, resilient, and deeply fulfilling marriages. It helps couples identify their strengths and growth areas, providing a roadmap for developing adaptive coping mechanisms and strengthening their bond even when faced with life's inevitable stressors.
PREPARE/ENRICH is not static; it continuously updates its assessment tools, resources, and facilitator training programs based on the latest findings in marital and family research. This commitment to ongoing development ensures that the program remains highly relevant, culturally sensitive, and maximally effective in addressing the evolving needs and complexities of couples today. Its evidence-based approach is why it remains a gold standard in premarital and marital counseling, empowering millions of couples worldwide to thrive.