Role-exit theory and marital discord following extended military deployment.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of applying role-exit theory concepts in the counseling of military couples experiencing marital discord following extended periods of deployment.


METHODS
Qualitative case-study methodology was utilized to assess, diagnose, and treat 10 military couples using a framework based on role-exit theory.


RESULTS
Six couples self-reported improvement in the marital relationship following this counseling approach.


CONCLUSIONS
Role-exit theory based counseling may benefit other couples who experience marital discord due to role issues. The clinical nurse specialist might consider this paradigm when working with couples in marital therapy.
Gambardella
Lucille C
LC
Department of Nursing, Wesley College, Dover, DE, USA. gambarlu@aol.com
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003376:Counseling / Q000458:organization & administration; D054541:Family Conflict / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D005783:Gender Identity; D006801:Humans; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D008297:Male; D008388:Marital Therapy / Q000458:organization & administration*; D008393:Marriage / Q000523:psychology*; D008873:Mid-Atlantic Region; D008875:Middle Aged; D008889:Military Personnel / Q000523:psychology*; D009720:Nurse Clinicians / Q000458:organization & administration; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D011568:Psychiatric Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration; D011582:Psychological Theory; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012649:Self Concept; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016896:Treatment Outcome