Does Pre-Marriage Coaching Work?

Absolutely.  According to Drs. Les and Leslie Parrott, statistics show couples who succeed, gain the knowledge they need before they settle into destructive patterns that often lead to divorce.  In fact, couples are 31% less likely to get divorced if they get some sort of pre-marriage training before they marry. ¹

Not only that, couples who participate in pre-marriage programs experience a 30% increase in marital success and fulfillment over those who do not participate.²

1 Stanley, Scott M., Amato, Paul., Johnson, Christine A., & Markman, Howard J. (2006). Pre-marriage Education, Marital Equality, and Marital Stability: Findings From A Large Random Household Survey. Journal of Family Psychology, V 20, P 117-126.

2 Caroll, J. S. & Doherty, W. J. (2003). Evaluating the Effectiveness of Pre-marriage Prevention Programs: A Meta-analytical Review of Outcome Research. Family Relations, V 52 (2), P 105-118.

When Should We Get Pre-Marriage Coaching?

Couples should seek pre-marriage coaching in the dating process at the moment they feel marriage potential.  Pre-marriage coaching should be sought long before the proposal, the acceptance of a ring or wedding date.

Pre-marriage coaching does not have to be a daunting task.  On the contrary it can be fun and extremely informative. In many instances couples only seek pre-marriage counseling/coaching as a prerequisite for the Pastor or Minister to perform the wedding ceremony.  As an alternative, couples should take the opportunity to learn more about their mate to ensure that they are the right person and to acquire the best tools for a bright future. I mean it’s only the rest of your life.

Are There Other Types of Pre-Marriage Coaching?

Of course, one size does not fit all.  The most traditional type of pre-marriage coaching is couple’s coaching but classes and small groups have become popular models as well.