Initial Relationship Satisfaction, Self-Discreancy, and Self-Awareness: Predictors of Relationship Satisfaction After Behavior Discrepancy

Abstract

The current study investigates the ability of three independent variables (initial relationship satisfaction, self-awareness, and self-discrepancy) to predict the level of satisfaction someone experiences with a relationship after a difficult situation. Initial relationship satisfaction and self-discrepancy predicted current relationship satisfaction. Self-awareness was not a significant contributor. Two additional research questions were put forth. The first research question was regarding the predictive capabilities of this model based on the three IVs. Significant relationships were found between initial relationship satisfaction (10.5%) and the DV (current relationship satisfaction), and self-discrepancy and the DV (3.2%), while no relationship was found between self-awareness and the DV. An additional research question sought to determine if self-discrepancy mediated or moderated the association between relationship satisfaction before a difficult situation and relationship satisfaction after a difficult situation, or if self-discrepancy makes an independent contribution to relationship satisfaction after a difficult situation. While a significant interaction was found, the value of that interaction was too small (.004) to be considered important. Thus, it was determined that initial relationship satisfaction and self discrepancy make unique contributions to the model. This model could be useful in future studies which seek to predict the outcome of difficult situations in relationships with significant others.