Studies on the quality and stability of a couple’s relationships have particular difficulty in distinguishing between the different theoretical constructs implied along with the overlap often observed among the criteria used for their evaluation. Attachment and intimacy are particularly investigated in this field of study. The authors’ purpose is to present an integration of these two dimensions towards the broader construct of the affectivity - bringing together the essential and the specific components of them. The review aims to provide greater clarity about the variables implicated in the quality of marital couple, and direct the research toward a multidimensional understanding and assessment of the issues involved. The identification of risk and protective factors will allow to implement interventions for prevention and promotion of the quality of the couple’s relationship, and health and wellbeing in their different aspects.
Keywords: Attachment, intimacy, quality of couple’s relationship, health, assessment