Personality Factors and Marital Disputes in Maharashtra: An Empirical Study

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between personality factors and marital disputes among married couples in Maharashtra, India. Drawing upon the Big Five personality framework, the research explores how traits such as neuroticism, agreeableness, and conscientiousness predict the frequency and intensity of marital conflicts. A quantitative approach was adopted with a sample of 200 married individuals (100 men and 100 women) across Pune, Mumbai, and Nagpur. Data were collected using the NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI) and a Marital Dispute Scale designed for this study. Results revealed significant positive correlations between neuroticism and marital disputes, and negative correlations between agreeableness and conscientiousness with dispute frequency. Findings underscore the psychological basis of marital discord and highlight the need for personality-based counselling interventions for couples.