Developing behavioral competencies in distressed marital couples

A behavioral problem-solving package designed to train negotiation and emotional expression skills was developed and evaluated in a laboratory using a multiple-baseline-across-behaviors experimental design. Multiple measurement procedures of target (e.g., statement of position), nontarget (e.g., number of positive statements), and subjective (e.g., ratings on the Marital Happiness Scale) behaviors were conducted during baseline and individual sessions prior to training sessions. Training consisted of modeling, behavioral rehearsal, and feedback regarding the rehearsal. The results showed that training was associated with increases in target, nontarget, and subjective behaviors, thereby demonstrating generalized treatment effects. These results were verified independently by another laboratory using a different scoring system, thereby contributing to the validity of the training program.