Promoting Acceptance of Differences: A Web‐Based Intervention for South Korean Couples

ABSTRACT This study adapted and validated a web‐based program to enhance attitudes toward accepting differences in couple relationships and evaluated its effects on relationship quality, interactions, and psychological well‐being. Grounded in the core principles and acceptance‐facilitating strategies of integrative behavioral couple therapy (IBCT), the program was culturally adapted to reflect relational dynamics common among South Korean couples. It was offered in clinician‐guided and self‐guided formats. Thirty‐four couples experiencing distress over interpersonal differences were randomly assigned, completed four sessions, and participated in pre‐, post‐, and follow‐up surveys. Both groups showed significant improvements in acceptance of differences and relationship satisfaction, with reduced distress. The clinician‐guided group showed added benefits, including greater intimacy, stability, constructive communication, and life satisfaction, along with reductions in perceived differences, conflict, and depression. Sex‐specific effects revealed greater benefits for women in the clinician‐guided condition. These results highlight the program's effectiveness and provide insights for its application and further research.