Identification of the effect of the consequences of the virtual environment on couples' lifestyle: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim: This study was aimed to identify the effect of the consequences of virtual environment on the lifestyle of couples in Shiraz. Method: This is a qualitative phenomenological research and the study sample included the couples in Shiraz that referred to counseling centers. In this research, the samples reached saturation stage with 11 couples. The tools used in this study included a semi-structured interview with open-ended questions. The data obtained from the interviews were analyzed by using the analytical model of Streubert and Carpenter (2003). Results: The damages resulting from the virtual environment to couples' relationships included two main codes: dysfunctional interpersonal patterns and dysfunctional intrapersonal patterns. The main code of dysfunctional interpersonal patterns includes sub-themes of marital problems, extramarital affairs, intimacy reduction, communication problems, and inability to manage conflict resolution. And the main code of dysfunctional interpersonal patterns also includes sub-themes of Internet addiction, inability to control emotions, lifestyle, and uncertainty of values. Conclusion: The results showed that excessive use of the virtual environment by each couple leads to marital lifestyle, sexual problems, extramarital affairs, reduced intimacy, communication problems, and reduced conflict resolution management.