The Role of Fear of Intimacy as Mediator between Self-Differentiation and Marital Relationship Satisfaction: A Dyadic Model

Abstract

From the lens of Bowen's systemic family theory, this study employed the actor–partner interdependence model (APIM) to investigate the mediating effect fear of intimacy has on the association between self-differentiating and both partners’ relationship satisfaction. One hundred and forty-four non-clinical married couples ( N = 288) in enduring relationships were recruited. Results for actor effects revealed two mediating paths whereby, among both partners, self-differentiation was associated with their relationship satisfaction via fear of intimacy. Partner effect revealed that wives’ higher self-differentiation was associated with their lower fear of intimacy, which was linked, in turn, to husbands’ higher relationship satisfaction; unlike husbands’ fear of intimacy, which had no effect. Our results support Bowen's theoretical assumptions positing that self-differentiation indicates the ability for intimacy, which affects couple relationship satisfaction. Interestingly, the results highlight the role of the wives’ capability to establish intimate relationships on the husbands’ relationship satisfaction.

Exploring the personality and relationship factors that mediate the connection between differentiation of self and phubbing

“…While romantic relationship satisfaction and loneliness in intimate relationships were not directly related to phubbing or play a mediating role, our findings do underscore their connection to DoS, supporting previous studies 22 , 91 . These findings corroborate Bowen’s 14 , 92 theoretical arguments that well-differentiated individuals can maintain stable and fulfilling intimate connections without compromising their basic selves, while poorly differentiated individuals may grapple with feelings of isolation due to difficulties in effectively balancing intimacy and autonomy 20 .…”

“…In addition, DoS predicted improved relationship quality, stability, and reduced attachment issues in individuals in the U.S. Over time, DoS led to improved relationship quality and decreased anxious attachment for Spanish individuals, while benefiting U.S. couples with greater stability and reduced anxious and avoidant attachment 16 . Higher DoS in wives has also been related to lower fear of intimacy, impacting higher romantic relationship satisfaction in husbands 22 . Furthermore, romantic relationship satisfaction partially mediated the association between DoS and forgiveness and exit/neglect, and DoS directly impacted romantic relationship dynamics 23 .…”

Predicting Marital Satisfaction Based on Sexual Satisfaction and Psychological Well-being in Married Women

“…Accordingly, marital satisfaction is an important criterion for determining a healthy family. Marital satisfaction, along with high levels of general health for both spouses and other family members, is associated (Finzi-Dottan, 2023;Ghasemi et al, 2022).…”