Mindfulness for couples to improve relationship satisfaction
Evaluating a Mindfulness-Based Couple Intervention (MBCI): A Randomized Feasibility Trial With Progression to Full-scale Trial
NA · Behavioural Science Institute · NCT07433582
This trial will test whether a Mindfulness-Based Couple Intervention helps partners in relationships longer than two years feel more satisfied and closer compared with an online self-expansion program or being on a waitlist.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 426 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Behavioural Science Institute (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Nijmegen, Gelderland) |
| Trial ID | NCT07433582 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This is a feasibility randomized trial with planned progression to a full-scale RCT if stoppage criteria are not met, comparing a Mindfulness-Based Couple Intervention (MBCI) to an online active control self-expansion intervention and a waitlist control. Couples complete questionnaires at baseline, post-intervention, and up to six months follow-up to measure relationship satisfaction and related processes. The trial excludes couples with recent mindfulness training, ongoing relationship therapy, severe mental disorder, recent partner violence, or insufficient Dutch language skills. Additional methodologies beyond questionnaires will be used to explore possible mechanisms and moderators of change.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Committed couples aged over 20 who have been together for more than two years and can speak Dutch are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Couples currently in relationship therapy, with recent intensive mindfulness training, serious recent partner violence, or severe mental disorders are unlikely to benefit from this trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the intervention could provide couples with a scalable program that improves relationship satisfaction and closeness.
How similar studies have performed: Previous smaller studies link mindfulness to better relationship outcomes but they are few and methodologically limited, so this trial uses a stronger randomized design with an active control.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * age \>20 years * relationship duration of \>2 years Exclusion Criteria: * One or both partners have followed an MBSR- or MBCT training or similar mindfulness program for at least four sessions in the past three years. * One or both partners are currently in relationship therapy. * One or both partners are unable to sufficiently speak and understand the Dutch language. * Presence of severe mental disorders in one or both partners, namely addiction, suicidality (in the past 12 months) or psychosis (in the past 12 months?). * Presence of partner violence (in the last 12 months)
Where this trial is running
Nijmegen, Gelderland
- Behavioral Science Institute, Radboud University — Nijmegen, Gelderland, Netherlands (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Johan C.T.M. Karremans, Prof. PhD
- Email: johan.karremans@ru.nl
- Phone: +31616805575
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Romantic Relationship Functioning, Romantic relationship, Mindfulness, Self-expansion, Relationship satisfaction, Couple intervention, MBSR