Affirmative Adaptations of the Relationship Checkup to Meet the Needs of LGBTQ Couples

Sexual Minority couples, those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer or other (LGBTQ), have voiced a desire for LGBTQ-affirmative couple interventions, and researchers have suggested theoretical adaptations to address this need. However, to date no LGBTQ-affirmative adaptations of general couple interventions have been developed and assessed. The present study assessed the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of an LGBTQ-affirmative adaptation of a preventive, two-session relationship intervention, The Relationship Checkup (RC). In this pilot study, adaptations were made based on recommendations from existing literature, consultation with experts in the field, and conversations with LGBTQ-identified individuals. Data from eighteen couples who completed the intervention suggest that the LGBTQ-RC is feasible and acceptable to participants. Results indicate that the LGBTQ-RC improved both individual and relationship well-being and was viewed by participants as LGBTQ-affirmative. These findings support the effectiveness of utilizing an affirmative stance and addressing LGBTQ-specific issues in couple interventions.