Date of Award

2026

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology

Specialization

Clinical Psychology

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Lisa L. Weyandt

Abstract

Military couples face a unique constellation of stressors that may impact relationship satisfaction. A substantial body of research has shown that both mental health concerns and exposure to adverse military-related events are associated with poorer relationship outcomes in this population. However, understanding of these domains—and the ways in which they have been conceptualized, measured, and studied in relation to relationship satisfaction—remains conceptually and methodologically heterogeneous. The present systematic review, therefore, aimed to synthesize and critically evaluate empirical findings on military couples addressing (1) the extent to which mental health concerns affect relationship satisfaction, (2) the impact of adverse military-related events on relationship satisfaction, and (3) methodological challenges, limitations, and gaps in the literature. Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search across five databases identified 63 studies for inclusion. Results revealed consistent negative associations between posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety symptoms and relationship satisfaction, with several studies highlighting the bidirectional nature of these associations. In contrast, the association between adverse military-related events, particularly deployment and reintegration, and relationship satisfaction was more variable, depending on factors such as social support, communication patterns, and perceived meaning of military service. Methodologically, the literature was characterized by variability in construct operationalization, differences in methodological rigor, reliance on cross-sectional designs, and limited demographic diversity. These findings highlight the need for more inclusive, theory-driven, and longitudinal research to better understand the mechanisms linking mental health concerns and adverse military-related events to relationship satisfaction and to inform interventions tailored to the needs of military couples.

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Available for download on Thursday, March 23, 2028

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