Relationship-specific irrational beliefs and relationship satisfaction in intimate relationships

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the connection between relationship-specific irrational beliefs and relationship satisfaction in individuals in an intimate heterosexual relationship. A convenience sample of 294 Turkish participants (136 married and 158 dating) currently involved in a close romantic relationship completed the Personal Information Form, Relationship Assessment Scale, and Irrational Romantic Relationship Beliefs Inventory using a web-based online survey. Data were analyzed using the Pearson product-moment correlation analysis and standard multiple linear regression analysis. Results of this study indicated that relationship-specific irrational beliefs about different thinking and gender differences were negatively associated with relationship satisfaction in married and dating individuals. Moreover, relationship-specific irrational beliefs about the use of social time were also negatively associated with relationship satisfaction in dating individuals. The study results provide strong support for predictions of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy theory and suggest that some relationship-specific irrational beliefs are associated with relationship satisfaction in married and dating individuals. Results of this study also demonstrate that relationship therapists need to be aware the importance of disputing relationship specific irrational beliefs of clients who have relationship problems for increasing their relationship satisfaction. The study’s findings may help provide a more comprehensive understanding of the role of relationship-specific irrational beliefs in relationship satisfaction in Turkish society.