This study aims to present an integrative review of the construct 'marital satisfaction'. Ten studies, recovered from LILACS and SciELO databases (1970-2008), were analyzed. Most of the studies deal with the definition of concepts (e.g., adjustment, quality) related to the subject. There are investigations in different couple contexts and of construction of measurement instruments. The studies show that the marital relationship is positively associated with health and quality of life, especially in the maturity and oldness. Further systematic studies in the Brazilian context are needed.
marital satisfaction; marital relationship; positive psychology