A Randomized Controlled Trial Study of an African American Adaptation of the Marital First Responder Curriculum

Abstract

Individuals in marriages and long term committed relationships often turn to friends and family members for support and input about relationship problems. Given their lower use of mental health services, these confiding relationships may be particularly important to African Americans. The goal of this study was to evaluate an educational intervention, Marital First Responders, which was specifically adapted for African Americans who self-identify as confidants for others who are dealing with relationship stress. The focus was on increasing confidants’ knowledge, skills, and confidence, and potentially increasing their frequency of confiding interactions. Using a randomized controlled trial design, confidants were assigned to receive a one-day workshop or be placed on a wait-list control group. At three month follow up, findings showed the intervention produced more knowledge, skills and confiding interactions, but not greater confidence. This program has potential to enhance community support for African American couple relationships.