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Premarital Predictors of Remarital Quality: Implications for Clinicians

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Abstract

This paper presents a review of the research literature from 1980 to present on the premarital predictors of remarital satisfaction and stability (quality). The predictive factors are organized with an ecosystemic theoretical model using three general predictor categories: background and context factors (e.g., stepchildren), individual traits and behaviors (e.g., attachment to an ex-spouse), and couple interactional processes (e.g., couple consensus). Major factors related to lower remarriage quality include the roles of stepchildren, stepfamily complexity, emotional attachment to an ex-spouse, serial marriage, and economic strain. Predictors related to higher remarital quality include couple consensus on important topics, social support from family and friends, and financial stability. Implications for couple therapy before remarriage are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, 92354, USA

    Stephanie I. Falke

  2. 274 TLRB, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA

    Jeffry H. Larson

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  1. Stephanie I. Falke
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  2. Jeffry H. Larson
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Correspondence to Jeffry H. Larson.

Additional information

Stephanie Falke, M.S. is a doctoral student in marital and family therapy at Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California 92354. Jeffry H. Larson is a Professor of Marriage and Family Therapy in the School of Family Life, Brigham Young University.

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Falke, S.I., Larson, J.H. Premarital Predictors of Remarital Quality: Implications for Clinicians. Contemp Fam Ther 29, 9–23 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-007-9024-4

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