"The Relationship of Work–Family Enrichment and Family Structure with Marital Happiness in Teachers: The Mediating Role of Sense of Coherence"

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Educational Sciences

2 Master of Family Counseling, Beihaq Institute of Higher Education, Sabzevar, Iran

10.48308/jcoc.2025.240659.1497

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of sense of coherence (SOC) in the relationship between work–family enrichment and family structure with marital happiness.

Method: The present study employed a descriptive-correlational research design. The statistical population consisted of all married female teachers in District 4 of the Mashhad Department of Education during the academic year 2023–2024. A total of 300 participants were selected through convenience sampling. Data collection tools included the Marital Happiness Questionnaire (MHQ), Sense of Coherence Scale (SOC), Work–Family Enrichment Questionnaire (WFEQ), and Family Structure Questionnaire (FSQ). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and structural equation modeling (SEM) via SPSS 22 and SmartPLS 3.

Findings: Results showed that family cohesion and adaptability had a significant direct effect on marital happiness, while work–family enrichment did not have a significant direct effect. However, SOC significantly mediated the relationship between work–family enrichment and family cohesion with marital happiness. No mediating role was found for SOC between family adaptability and marital happiness.

Conclusion: Given the mediating role of SOC, it is recommended that educational policymakers promote personal development and psychological skills programs. Also, supporting family cohesion and work–family enrichment should be prioritized to enhance marital happiness among teachers.

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