The Risks and Rewards of Marriage for Fire Fighters: A Literature Review with Implications for EAP

Abstract

EAPs may be able to better support fire fighters and their families if more is known about the marital and occupational stressors of this at-risk population. We conducted a review of literature to answer several questions. First, what is the actual rate of divorce among people working in fire service? Second, what factors relate to marital stability among fire fighters and is marital relationship predictive of job satisfaction, job safety, and overall job success in fire service? Lastly, are marital enrichment or relationship support programs in place in fire service families, and, if so, are they effective? Over 20 scholarly research works were examined that addressed marriage among fire fighters. Surprisingly, we could find empirical data on only the first question with the other questions largely missing as topics in the literature. Both U.S. census data and a large survey found rates of divorce for male fire fighters in the range of 12-14%, which was similar to national averages at the time. Other data was found on fire fighter family challenges, the spouses of fire fighters, and the marriages of volunteer fire fighters. Advances in counseling and other behavioral health services for fire fighters are also identified. Suggestions for EAP practice and future research are provided.