Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 24, 2026
04:20
Social Isolation Model: A Noninvasive Rodent Model of Stress and Anxiety
Published on: November 11, 2022
Romantic relationships: do socially anxious individuals benefit?
Elizabeth A Gordon1, Richard G Heimberg, Jennifer L Montesi
1Department of Psychology, Temple University, PA 19122-6085, USA.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
|March 15, 2012
Summary
Romantic relationships positively impact psychological health, but socially anxious individuals experience greater benefits from positive relationship aspects and more harm from negative ones. This highlights the complex interplay between social anxiety and relationship dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Psychological health and interpersonal functioning are bidirectionally related.
- Social anxiety significantly impairs interpersonal functioning, leading to smaller social networks and reduced relationship intimacy.
- The reciprocal influence of romantic relationships on the psychological health of socially anxious individuals remains underexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how romantic relationships are perceived to influence psychological health (well-being, social anxiety, social comfort) in undergraduates.
- To examine if these perceived influences differ based on levels of social anxiety.
- To assess the perceived importance of various reasons (protective and harmful) for these relationship effects.
Main Methods:
- A structured interview was employed to gather data from an undergraduate sample.
- Participants' perceptions of relationship influences on psychological health were assessed.
- The role of social anxiety in moderating these perceptions and the importance of specific reasons was analyzed.
Main Results:
- Romantic relationships were generally perceived to positively influence well-being, social anxiety, and social comfort.
- Socially anxious individuals reported greater benefits from positive relationship factors and more harm from negative factors.
- Social anxiety levels were associated with endorsing specific reasons as important for relationship influences.
Conclusions:
- Romantic relationships offer potential benefits for psychological health, even for those with social anxiety.
- Socially anxious individuals may be more sensitive to both the positive and negative aspects of romantic relationships.
- Understanding these dynamics is crucial for supporting the psychological well-being of individuals with social anxiety within their relationships.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Social Relationships and Well-Being
The significance of social relationships in psychological well-being is a well-established area of inquiry within social psychology. Research consistently demonstrates that the presence of meaningful, supportive relationships enhances emotional health, while the absence or deterioration of such connections can contribute to psychological distress. Relationships serve as a foundation for emotional support, identity, and social belonging, all of which are critical to an individual’s overall...
03:34Theory of Romantic Attachment in Adulthood
Attachment is a long-standing connection or bond with others. While Attachment Theory was conceived in developmental psychology to describe infant-caregiver bonding, it's been extended into adulthood to include romantic relationships.
02:06Social Exchange Theory
We have discussed why we form relationships, what attracts us to others, and different types of love. But what determines whether we are satisfied with and stay in a relationship? One theory that provides an explanation is social exchange theory. According to social exchange theory, we act as naïve economists in keeping a tally of the ratio of costs and benefits of forming and maintaining a relationship with others (Rusbult & Van Lange, 2003).
01:26Social Exchange Theory
As formulated by John Thibaut and Harold Kelley, Social Exchange Theory explains human relationships as economic-like exchanges that maximize rewards and minimize costs. This theory suggests that individuals engage in relationships to gain benefits and reduce burdens, similar to economic transactions. It has been widely applied to various types of relationships, including romantic, professional, and social interactions.Rewards and Costs in RelationshipsRelationship rewards include emotional...
01:29Factors Influencing Attraction V: Social Skills
Social skills play a crucial role in shaping interpersonal interactions and enhancing individuals' ability to navigate various social environments successfully. These skills contribute to personal and professional success, influencing how others perceive and treat individuals. High social skills provide distinct advantages in numerous settings, including romantic relationships, politics, and legal proceedings. In courtroom settings, for instance, defendants who exhibit strong social skills are...
02:12Relationship Formation
What do you think is the single most influential factor in determining with whom you become friends and whom you form romantic relationships? You might be surprised to learn that the answer is simple: the people with whom you have the most contact. This most important factor is proximity. You are more likely to be friends with people you have regular contact with. For example, there are decades of research that shows that you are more likely to become friends with people who live in your dorm,...