Romantic relationships and attitudes in Asian emerging adults: Review and critique

Abstract

This article summarizes and critiques existing literature on the factors that might influence romantic relationships and attitudes among Asian emerging adults (18–29 years old). Forty‐one studies were identified. Findings were categorized into two groups based on outcome variables: romantic relationship qualities (e.g., satisfaction; N = 22) and attitudes toward dating and marriage (N = 19). Common predictors of relationship qualities include parenting factors (e.g., parental divorce), culture‐specific factors (e.g., filial piety), and psychological factors (e.g., identity status). Furthermore, findings suggest that Asian emerging adults tend to hold more conservative dating attitudes, prioritize parental approval, but also share some similarities in dating attitudes with their Western counterparts. We proposed specific recommendations regarding sample diversity and areas for further investigation in future research. Clinical implications are also discussed that highlight the importance of relationship therapists showing empathy and building therapeutic alliance with Asian emerging adult clients.