The Effectiveness of Transactional Analysis (TA) on Couples ` Communication Patterns among Prisoners and Their Wives, a Randomized Pilot Efficacy Trial

ABSTRACT Background Imprisonment is tied to relationship churning among romantic partners—all of which contribute to family instability. Imprisonment of a father is a serious critical life event because it can disrupt family relationships, contribute to negative outcomes for children, and aggravate material and social problems such as unemployment and social exclusion. The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of Transactional Analysis (TA) on couple's communication patterns in prisoners and their wives. Method The method of the study was semi-experimental with a pre-test, post-test, and waiting list control group. 22 couples (44 people) were selected by convenience sampling method. They were assigned into two groups; an experimental group (11 couples) and a waiting list control group (11 couples). The participants in the experimental group were given 10 sessions of Transactional Analysis (TA) while the waiting list control group received no treatment. MANCOVA models were used to analyze the data, which was obtained from implementing CPQ. Results The findings showed that communication patterns were improved between prisoners and their wives. Therefore, the principle of TA had a positive effect on enhancing communication patterns. Conclusion the TA approach is an appropriate way to reduce communication problems of prisoners and their spouses.