COUPLES AS LEARNING SPACES: EXCHANGE OF EMPATHY AND SPIRITUAL VALUES IN INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION PRACTICES

Abstract

In the context of modern human relationships, couples function not merely as emotional entities but as dynamic spaces for learning complex forms of interpersonal communication. The couple relationship becomes an arena of meaning exchange where values of empathy, spirituality, and self-reflection are tested and co-constructed. This study aims to understand how couples practice interpersonal communication as a social and spiritual learning process that shapes the shared meaning of life together. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach within a phenomenological perspective of interpersonal communication, the research emphasizes the subjective experiences of couples in interpreting their relational dynamics. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with long-term couples and observations of their daily interactions. The findings reveal that couples serve as symbolic spaces for continuous learning. Through everyday communication, they develop shared awareness across three main dimensions: (1) meaning exchange fostering mutual understanding of experiences and emotions, (2) empathy as an emotional bridge for managing differences, and (3) spiritual values as ethical foundations and sources of relational balance. The study concludes that couple communication functions as a reflective and spiritual practice through which individuals learn self-awareness and transcendence in relation to others.