Modeling Family Cohesion and Adaptability Based on Interpersonal Cognitive Distortions and Emotion Regulation Difficulties with the Mediation of Conflict Resolution Styles in Conflicted Couples

Objective: The aim of the present study was to model family cohesion and adaptability based on interpersonal cognitive distortions and emotion regulation difficulties with the mediation of conflict resolution styles in conflicted couples. Methods and Materials: The research was applied in terms of its objective and employed a quantitative-descriptive method of data collection using a correlational approach based on the structural equation modeling (SEM) method. The statistical population included married men and women who referred to counseling and psychology centers in districts 1 to 5 of Tehran city in 2023. A non-random convenience sampling method was used, and a total of 368 individuals were selected. Data were collected using the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale (Olson, David H., et al., 1985), the Interpersonal Cognitive Distortions Questionnaire (Hamamci & Ozturk, 2004), the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (Gratz, 2004), and the Rahim Organizational Conflict Inventory-II (Rahim, 1983). Findings: The results of the structural equation modeling indicated that there was a significant negative relationship between interpersonal cognitive distortions and difficulties in emotion regulation with integrated and compromising conflict resolution styles, as well as family cohesion and adaptability (p < .01). Conversely, interpersonal cognitive distortions had a significant positive relationship with avoidant, dominating, and obliging conflict resolution styles (p < .01). Additionally, there was a significant positive relationship between integrated and compromising conflict resolution styles and family cohesion and adaptability (p < .01), whereas avoidant, dominating, and obliging conflict resolution styles had a significant negative relationship with family cohesion and adaptability (p < .01). Conclusion: Interpersonal cognitive distortions, emotion regulation difficulties, and conflict resolution styles play a role in predicting family cohesion and adaptability.