Married individuals' reflections on their relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic

This study aims to examine the evaluations of married individuals on their couple relations during the COVID-19 Pandemic period. The design of this research is the qualitative research design. This qualitative study utilized a sample of 7 male and 6 female married participants who were married before prior to the Covid-19 Pandemic. In this study, a semi-structured interview form which was prepared by the researcher was used to conduct interviews. Thematic analysis method was used to analyse the data. Thematic analysis resulted in four themes and twelve sub-themes related to couple relations of married individuals in the COVID-19 Pandemic were reached. These themes are (1) the unity of couples before the pandemic, (2) the effects of the pandemic on relationships, (3) the relations in the new normalization period, and (4) not being affected by the pandemic. The findings of the study were presented within the context of sub-themes under each main theme. Results of the study revealed that the COVID-19 Pandemic provides new opportunities that strengthen the relationships of couples. Although the pandemic has some negative effects on couples' relationships, its overall impact on the marital relationships seemed positive. Furthermore, couples tended to maintain the positive aspect of their relationships both during the COVID-19 Pandemic and throughout the normalization period.