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A Test of Contextual Theory: The Relationship Among Relational Ethics, Marital Satisfaction, Health Problems, and Depression

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Abstract

Few studies have examined the theoretical underpinning of contextual theory. Using structural equation modeling, the relationship among relational ethics (recognized as the most important aspect of contextual theory), marital satisfaction, depression, and illness was examined. Data came from a national sample of 632 mid-life, married individuals. Results supported Nagy’s contextual theory. The total score of the Relational Ethics Scale was a significant predictor of marital satisfaction, and marital satisfaction was significantly associated with depression and health problems. Vertical and horizontal subscales of relational ethics also were significant predictors of depression and health problems through the mediating variable of marital satisfaction.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Child and Family Studies, Marriage and Family Therapy Program, University of Southern Mississippi, 118 College Drive # 5035, Hattiesburg, MS, 39406-0001, USA

    Heath A. Grames & W. Jeff Hinton

  2. School of Family Life, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA

    Richard B. Miller

  3. Department of Family Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA

    W. David Robinson

  4. Department of Psychology, Mesa Community College, Mesa, AZ, USA

    Derrel J. Higgins

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  1. Heath A. Grames
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  4. Derrel J. Higgins
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Correspondence to Heath A. Grames.

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Grames, H.A., Miller, R.B., Robinson, W.D. et al. A Test of Contextual Theory: The Relationship Among Relational Ethics, Marital Satisfaction, Health Problems, and Depression. Contemp Fam Ther 30, 183–198 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-008-9073-3

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