The University of Georgia is to study what effect, if any, prayer has on couples’ relationships.

“We are comparing three conditions to find an approach that is optimal for couples,” according to Steven Beach, director of the UGA Institute for Behavioral Research and a psychology professor. “We’re confident that the information and listening skills developed in the marital area over the past 30 years are useful to couples when they use them. What we’re testing is the best way to help couples incorporate those skills into their relationships. Our hypothesis considers the possibility that prayer may make a significant difference and help couples develop and use relationship skills when they are in conflict.”

The study will involve 500 African-American couples between the ages of 21-45 who are either married or have set a specific date for getting married. The study will use PREP, the Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program, which has been validated in numerous studies as an effective tool for helping couples improve their relationships. Couples will be divided into three groups. One group will work through the PREP program on their own; a second will meet in small groups with a trained leader who will lead them through the PREP program; and a third group will meet with a trained leader, but this group also will use a series of prayers that tie into skills they’re learning in the PREP program.

Earlier research indicates that up to 97% of participants will be Protestant Christian, though the programme could easily be extended to other denominations or religions.

Read the full article: Impact of Prayer on Couples’ Relationships to Be Explored by University of Georgia, Athens Researcher