Exploring Participant Experiences in SMART Couples Education Programs: A Thematic Analysis Study

Objective This study explored participant experiences with Strengthening Marriage and Relationship Training (SMART) Couples relationship education across three adult curriculum families: Before You Tie the Knot (BYTK) , ELEVATE , and Smart Steps . Background While quantitative research supports couple and relationship education (CRE) effectiveness, such approaches often overlook participants' lived experiences and the contextual factors shaping perceived program value. Method Using inductive thematic analysis augmented with AI‐assisted coding, this qualitative study analyzed 8938 open‐ended responses collected across four survey questions examining referral pathways, participant expectations, perceived program value, and participant feedback. Results Participants most often described program value, diverse pathways into the programs, expectations at entry, and feedback reflecting both overall satisfaction and concrete suggestions. Conclusion SMART Couples participants described relationship education as meaningful in both relational and personal ways. Findings emphasize the value of incorporating participant voice into program evaluation. Implications Programs should tailor outreach and support strategies to referral channels and participant readiness, streamline evaluation processes, and leverage participant narratives to guide culturally responsive and developmentally attuned program refinement.