Psychology

Affirmative Adaptations of the Relationship Checkup to Meet the Needs of LGBTQ Couples

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Sexual Minority couples, those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer or other (LGBTQ), have voiced a desire for LGBTQ-affirmative couple interventions, and researchers have suggested theoretical adaptations to address this need. However, to date no LGBTQ-affirmative adaptations of general couple interventions have been developed and assessed. The present study assessed the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of an LGBTQ-affirmative adaptation of a preventive, two-session relationship intervention, The Relationship Checkup (RC). In this pilot study, adaptations were made based on recommendations from existing literature, consultation with experts in the field, and conversations with LGBTQ-identified individuals. Data from eighteen couples who completed the intervention suggest that the LGBTQ-RC is feasible and acceptable to participants. Results indicate that the LGBTQ-RC improved both individual and relationship well-being and was viewed by participants as LGBTQ-affirmative. These findings support the effectiveness of utilizing an affirmative stance and addressing LGBTQ-specific issues in couple interventions. © 2022 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Publication Title

Journal of Couple and Relationship Therapy

Publication Date

11-23-2022

First Page

1

Last Page

25

ISSN

1533-2691

DOI

10.1080/15332691.2022.2149652

Keywords

affirmative therapy, couple therapy and techniques, gender and LGBT, LGBTQ, relationship health

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