EUGENE–A researcher at the University of Oregon is seeking additional couples to participate in an ongoing exploration into the positive and helpful things married couples can do to soothe each other during stressful times.

"Our research may identify an important skill of great value to couples trying to build strong and supportive relationships," says Keith Harris who is finishing his Ph.D. work in clinical psychology.

Dozens of scientific studies tell the unhappy story of what happens when married couples argue. Many of these studies use physiological arousal–such as increases in heart rate and blood pressure–to measure in laboratory settings the kinds of marital stresses that usually go on in private. As the tension mounts, up goes the blood pressure.

"We are predicting that supportive, as opposed to combative, interactions between spouses will lead to reductions in physiological arousal," says Harris.

This is especially important because there are well-documented problems associated with being physiologically reactive in fights. These problems include the deterioration of marital quality and physical health.

There is another compelling reason for studying couples. A 30-year history of research shows conclusively that a person’s social support network is of central importance when it comes to dealing with life’s difficulties. For married individuals, a spouse is the single most important person in this network.

Previously, researchers have studied physiological aspects of conflict. Others have studied the importance of social support. But no one has studied the physiological aspects of social support in married couples," Harris says. "If we find measurable benefits from spouses supporting each other, then we will have opened a door into some new ways of helping a couple succeed in their relationship."

In his research project, couples discuss difficult or stressful subjects and are videotaped during the conversations. Afterwards, with electrodes attached to their faces, they watch the videotape and record how supportive or supported they felt during their interaction. Finally they fill out a few simple questionnaires. The whole process is completed in about two-and-a-half hours. Participating couples receive a stipend of $25.

So far, Harris has conducted sessions with about 15 couples. He hopes to recruit approximately 40 more local couples to take part in the project in the next few months.

"The fact that couples are willing to participate in this work implies a cooperative spirit between the two and demonstrates a healthy willingness to learn more about their relationships. These are very positive measures of a marriage."

Couples wishing to participate in the program should contact Keith Harris, (541) 346-4964.

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