Exploring emotional availability and psychological adjustment in newlywed men in Malaysia: A qualitative study

The early years of marriage play a crucial role among newlyweds, as they predict the strength and longevity of the relationship. Current statistics indicate an increasing trend in divorce rates in Malaysia, rising from 6.1% to 6.7%, which highlights a significant research gap concerning its underlying factors. While previous studies have emphasized the importance of emotional availability and psychological adjustment during early marriages, most have focused on women, thereby overlooking men’s perspectives. To address this gap, this qualitative study aimed to explore the factors influencing emotional availability and psychological adjustment of newlywed men, along with the potential barriers they face in seeking support. Data were generated from ten in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed through the lens of Interpersonal Acceptance-Rejection Theory. Thematic analysis revealed that societal expectations, emotional intelligence, and communication styles influenced emotional availability, whereas motivational styles, conflict resolution strategies, and family acceptance shaped psychological adjustment. Additionally, newlywed men who exhibited high self-reliance, selective emotional disclosure, and fear of judgment usually avoid seeking professional support. The findings suggest that sensitive marital subjects like men’s emotional availability remain taboo in Malaysian society. To address this, it is essential to raise awareness of men's emotional and psychological needs through pre-marital workshops and by offering couples counseling to newlyweds, such as through the Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program (PREP).