Seerah-Based Reconciliation to Marital Conflict Resolution: Analysis of Spousal Communication in Pakistani Families

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) reconciliatory practices, spousal communication quality, and marital conflict, focusing on how communication mediates the link between reconciliatory behaviours and conflict. Rooted in marital relationship dynamics and guided by ethical principles demonstrated by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), the research examined whether a decline in reconciliatory practices adversely affects communication and increases marital discord. The study was conducted in Peshawar using a purposive sample of 721 married individuals (359 females, 362 males) representing diverse age groups, educational backgrounds, and family types. Data were collected through validated self-report measures and analyzed using SPSS and AMOS, incorporating exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, structural equation modelling, and mediation testing. Findings revealed that low adherence to Prophetic reconciliatory practices was significantly associated with reduced spousal communication quality and increased marital conflict, with communication quality playing a strong mediating role. The study concludes that strengthening reconciliatory practices and communication skills can effectively promote marital harmony and stability.