Conflict Management Strategies for Married Couples with Hearing Impairment: An Explanatory Perspective

Kashif Iqbal1, Nageen Arif2 & Iqra Afzal3

Abstract
Effective communication and relationships are essential for hearing-impaired couples to lead happy lives. This study aimed to investigate the dispute resolution techniques that married couples with hearing loss might use to lead healthier, happier lives. This research was explanatory and qualitative. 15 adult couples, one of whom was hearing-impaired and the other was normal, made up the study’s sample. The technique of sampling procedure was purposive sampling technique utilized to gather data for this investigation. Data were gathered using a self-designed semi-structured interview protocol. The expert opinion (N=02) confirmed the validity of the instrument. A thorough literature review was conducted to verify the instrument’s reliability. Thematic analysis was done to examine the data. From the thematic analysis, four main themes were identified: the nature of conflicts, their causes, the difficulties faced by hearing-impaired couples, and conflict resolution techniques. The study’s results showed that the majority of participants indicated that hearing-impaired partners eventually became accustomed to their normal mate. The study recommended special orientation sessions before and after marriages of couples with hearing impairment.

Keywords: Conflict management, Strategies, Hearing Impaired, Couple,
Marriage.