Interested in learning more about the research behind this project?  Here are some studies to consider. As this list indicates, we take the science behind this project seriously and strive for a project that is informed by some of the best research in this area.

ePREP program efficacy

These studies all originate from randomized controlled trials, which represent the gold standard for establishing causal effects of a program.

• Braithwaite, S. R., & Fincham, F. D. (2009). A randomized clinical trial of a computer based preventive intervention: Replication and extension of ePREP. Journal of Family Psychology 23(1), 32–38. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0014061
• Braithwaite, S. R., & Fincham, F. D. (2011). Computer-based dissemination: A randomized clinical trial of ePREP using the actor partner interdependence model. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 49(2), 126–131. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brat.2010.11.002
• Doss, B. D., Knopp, K., Roddy, M. K., Rothman, K., Hatch, S. G., & Rhoades, G. K. (2020). Online programs improve relationship functioning for distressed low-income couples: Results from a nationwide randomized controlled trial. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 88(4), 283–294. https://doi.org/10.1037/ccp0000479
• Roddy, M. K., Rhoades, G. K., & Doss, B. D. (2020). Effects of ePREP and OurRelationship on Low-Income Couples’ Mental Health and Health Behaviors: a Randomized Controlled Trial. Prevention Science, 21, 861–871. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11121-020-01100-y
• Roddy, M. K., Knopp, K., Georgia Salivar, E., & Doss, B. D. (2021). Maintenance of Relationship and Individual Functioning Gains Following Online Relationship Programs for Low‐Income Couples. Family Process, 60(1), 102-118. https://doi.org/10.1111/famp.12541

PREP program efficacy

In addition to these studies, there have been more than 40 published, peer-reviewed studies on the PREP program (the in-person version of the ePREP program). These findings document the benefits of PREP program for participants’ relationship quality, relationship stability, and individual well-being. Example publications include:

• Markman, H. J., Renick, M. J., Floyd, F. J., Stanley, S. M., & Clements, M. (1993). Preventing marital distress through communication and conflict management training: A 4-and 5-year follow-up. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 61(1), 70. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006X.61.1.70
• Stanley, S. M., Allen, E. S., Markman, H. J., Rhoades, G. K., & Prentice, D. L. (2010). Decreasing divorce in US Army couples: Results from a randomized controlled trial using PREP for Strong Bonds. Journal of Couple & Relationship Therapy, 9(2), 149-160. https://doi.org/10.1080/15332691003694901
• Stanley, S. M., Markman, H. J., Prado, L. M., Olmos‐Gallo, P. A., Tonelli, L., St. Peters, M., … & Whitton, S. W. (2001). Community‐based premarital prevention: Clergy and lay leaders on the front lines. Family Relations, 50(1), 67-76. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-3729.2001.00067.x

Couple relationships affecting adult and child outcomes

Decades of research highlight the ways in which couple relationships can affect many areas of our lives – including our mental and physical health – as well as the well-being of any children in the home.

• Cummings, E. M., & Davies, P. T. (2002). Effects of marital conflict on children: Recent advances and emerging themes in process‐oriented research. Journal of child psychology and psychiatry, 43(1), 31-63. https://doi.org/10.1111/1469-7610.00003
• Goldberg, J. S., & Carlson, M. J. (2014). Parents’ relationship quality and children’s behavior in stable married and cohabiting families. Journal of Marriage and Family, 76(4), 762-777. https://doi.org/10.1111/jomf.12120
• Robles, T. F., Slatcher, R. B., Trombello, J. M., & McGinn, M. M. (2014). Marital quality and health: A meta-analytic review. Psychological Bulletin, 140(1), 140–187. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0031859

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