KUALITAS KOMUNIKASI INTERPERSONAL ANTARA SUAMI DAN ISTRI DALAM KEHIDUPAN BERKELUARGA (Studi pada Pasangan Suami Istri di Desa Baletbaru Kabupaten Jember)

The aim of this study is to analyze the quality of interpersonal communication between husbands and wives who have been married for more than 25 years in Baletbaru Village, Jember Regency. This research employs a qualitative approach using a case study method with a descriptive type. The study focuses on five aspects of interpersonal communication based on Joseph A. DeVito’s framework: openness, empathy, supportiveness, positiveness, and equality. The findings reveal that openness plays a key role in maintaining trust between partners. However, some wives tend to hold back in order not to burden their husbands, which may affect the quality of interpersonal communication. Empathy is often demonstrated through understanding without the need for verbal expression. Supportiveness, in the form of emotional support and joint decision-making, strengthens relationship harmony. Positive attitudes and equal communication contribute to relationship stability, where couples who engage in egalitarian communication tend to experience greater harmony. In conclusion, a high quality of interpersonal communication is a crucial factor in sustaining long-term marriages. External factors such as cultural background and socio-economic conditions also influence the couple’s communication patterns. Therefore, awareness of the importance of continuously developing communication skills characterized by openness, positivity, empathy, support, and equality is essential for maintaining a harmonious and lasting relationship.