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Closeness Discrepancies in Romantic Relationships: Implications for Relational Well-Being, Stability, and Mental Health
- Experiences of closeness in romantic relationships are associated with heightened levels of relational well-being and mental health.
- However, individuals differ in the degree of closeness they desire in their relationships.
- This study used the construct of inclusion of other in self (IOS) [Pictured above] to analyze discrepancies between individuals’ actual and ideal levels of closeness in their relationships and the implications of these discrepancies for relational well-being and mental health.
- A longitudinal survey of partnered individuals demonstrated that optimal levels of relational well-being and mental health existed when individuals had minimal discrepancies between actual and ideal IOS, regardless of their actual levels of IOS.
- Individuals whose actual levels of IOS moved closer to their ideal levels over a 2-year period reported improved relational well-being and mental health.
- Individuals with little to no discrepancies between actual and ideal IOS were also less likely to break-up with their partners over time.
(Frost & Forrester, 2013). Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin.
