Promoting Acceptance of Differences: A Web-Based Intervention for South Korean Couples

Abstract

This study adapted and validated a web-based program to enhance attitudes toward accepting differences in couple relationships and evaluated its effects on relationship quality, interactions, and psychological well-being. Grounded in the core principles and acceptance-facilitating strategies of integrative behavioral couple therapy (IBCT), the program was culturally adapted to reflect relational dynamics common among South Korean couples. It was offered in clinician-guided and self-guided formats. Thirty-four couples experiencing distress over interpersonal differences were randomly assigned, completed four sessions, and participated in pre-, post-, and follow-up surveys. Both groups showed significant improvements in acceptance of differences and relationship satisfaction, with reduced distress. The clinician-guided group showed added benefits, including greater intimacy, stability, constructive communication, and life satisfaction, along with reductions in perceived differences, conflict, and depression. Sex-specific effects revealed greater benefits for women in the clinician-guided condition. These results highlight the program's effectiveness and provide insights for its application and further research.