Associations of Mindful Partnering With Mental and Relational Health
Brock A Rigsby1, Hannah C Dunlop2, Samantha M Brown1,2
1Department of Human Development & Family Studies, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA.
Journal of Marital and Family Therapy
|July 23, 2026
Summary
Mindful partnering (MP), a novel approach to relationship mindfulness, shows significant benefits for mental and relational health. This study highlights MP as a promising target for interventions aimed at improving couple well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Relationship Science
- Mindfulness Studies
Background:
- Mindfulness positively impacts mental health and romantic relationships.
- Mindful partnering (MP) is an emerging application of mindfulness in romantic relationships.
- Interpersonal mindfulness may offer unique relational benefits beyond individual mindfulness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the predictive relationship between mindful partnering (MP) and mental/relational health outcomes.
- To examine the multifaceted nature of MP in couples.
- To extend previous research limited by focusing on isolated features of interpersonal mindfulness.
Main Methods:
- Utilized actor-partner interdependence models in two independent samples (N=168; N=170).
- Assessed mindful partnering (MP) through both self-reports and observational measures.
- Examined the prediction of mental and relational health outcomes by MP.
Main Results:
- Greater mindful partnering (MP) was significantly associated with fewer mental health symptoms.
- Increased MP predicted enhanced relationship health outcomes.
- Both self-reported and observed MP measures contributed to predicting positive outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Mindful partnering (MP) is a valuable construct for understanding and improving couple functioning.
- MP demonstrates potential as a key target for couple-focused therapeutic interventions.
- Findings support the integration of relational mindfulness practices in relationship support.
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