Relationship Beliefs and Relationship Satisfaction: Perceived Relationship Power Imbalance as a Mediator

Garcia-Zavala G.; Schoebi D.; Osorio A.; de Irala J. · Family Journal (2025) · DOI: 10.1177/10664807251333757

Resumen

This study investigated the role of relationship beliefs in relationship satisfaction among Spanish-speaking heterosexual couples and explored the mediating role of perceived relationship power imbalance (RPI). Before their wedding, 111 couples from Spanish-speaking countries completed a questionnaire that included questions about relationship beliefs and RPI. About 2 years after the wedding, they completed a new questionnaire measuring relationship satisfaction. Contrary to expectations, dysfunctional relationship beliefs were not directly associated with relationship satisfaction. However, they significantly predicted perceived RPI, with individuals endorsing these beliefs reporting greater power imbalance. Perceived RPI, in turn, was significantly associated with lower relationship satisfaction. Importantly, perceived RPI fully mediated the relationship between dysfunctional relationship beliefs and relationship satisfaction. These findings suggest that while dysfunctional beliefs may not directly impact relationship satisfaction, they do so indirectly through their influence on perceived power dynamics within the relationship. This highlights the importance of addressing dysfunctional beliefs and power imbalances in pre-marriage preparation programs to prevent marital dissatisfaction in the early years of marriage. Furthermore, considering the potential link between dysfunctional beliefs and intimate partner violence, interventions targeting these beliefs could also serve as a preventive measure against harmful relationship outcomes. © The Author(s) 2025.

Instituciones: Universidad Católica San Pablo