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Satisfaction with a romantic relationship, depression, support and conflict
1Department of Social Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, UK. d.cramer@lboro.ac.uk
Psychology and Psychotherapy
|December 14, 2004
Summary
This study found that perceived support directly impacts relationship satisfaction. Conflict and depression did not mediate this association, suggesting support is a stronger predictor than previously thought.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Relationship Science
Background:
- Previous research suggests conflict and depression may mediate the link between support and relationship satisfaction.
- The specific role of support versus conflict in relationship satisfaction requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if the association between support and conflict differs when measured generally versus specifically.
- To test if conflict and depression mediate the relationship between support and romantic relationship satisfaction.
Main Methods:
- 76 female and 24 male college students completed validated scales for relationship satisfaction, depression, and support/conflict (general and specific instances).
- Measures for general and specific conflict/support were combined due to high correlation.
Main Results:
- A direct association was found between perceived support and relationship satisfaction.
- Neither conflict nor depression mediated the relationship between support and satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Perceived support appears to be a more significant factor in determining romantic relationship satisfaction than conflict.
- Future research should focus on the direct impact of support in relationship dynamics.