Differences in predictors of marital satisfaction for women in first and second marriages

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between three groups of variables and marital satisfaction in second-married women. The three groups of variables were demographic, perceptual, and personality factors previously used in the prediction of marital satisfaction. These groups of variables were compared using a sample of 50 first- and 50 second-married women. Differences in predictive variables were then compared to establish the best predictors of marital satisfaction for first- and second-married women. Subjects within the second-married group were divorced, and currently within a second marriage. No widows or multiple-marriage participants were allowed. First-married women had to have been in one marriage and were currently married. Subjects were contacted personally by the experimenter or through word-of-mouth. The sample mainly consisted of white, middle-class, Protestant, white collar women from the Wichita area. The Personal Data Inventory and the Adjective Check List were used to measure the demographic, perceptual, and personality predictors. The criterion was measured by the Marital Satisfaction Scale Form C. The data were analyzed using regression analysis. The results of this study indicated that there were differences in the prediction of marital satisfaction for first- and second-married women. For first-married women predictors were low abasement, high autonomy, and Protestant religion orientation. For second-married women personal adjustment, achievement, heterosexuality, perceived marital satisfaction of spouse, educational level and unemployment status were positive predictors of marital satisfaction. Perceived individual marital satisfaction was the strongest predictor of marital satisfaction, for both groups. Only one of the five variables exclusive to second married-women was predictive. Length of second marriage was predictive of marital satisfaction in a negative direction.