Psychophysiological Arousal While Discussing Romantic Challenges with Partners and Friends

Abstract

In this exploratory study, we examined psychophysiological arousal when partners engaged in the common practice of discussing romantic trials with one another and with friends. To capture stress, we measured Galvanic Skin Response (GSR), Heart Rate Variability (HRV), and Respiration Rate (RSP). Paired t-tests from a dyadic sample of 71 heterosexual couples revealed talking about romantic problems, in general, was accompanied by elevated psychophysiological stress. GSR scores suggested partners were more stressed when speaking with friends than to one another about relationship challenges. Universally, males had higher GSR scores and females higher RSP. We discuss therapeutic implications and future directions.