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Long-distance relationships (LDR) are increasingly common among postsecondary students, yet few studies have examined how dispositional mindfulness (DM) supports relational and health functioning in this context. This study tested: (a) the differential contribution of DM facets to interpersonal and intrapersonal outcomes, and (b) the mediating role of DM facets in the association between relationship satisfaction and health. Participants ( N = 97) were postsecondary students or romantic partners of postsecondary students (aged 18–35) who completed an online survey. FDR-corrected stepwise linear regressions examined facet-level predictors, and parallel multiple mediation tested indirect effects between relationship satisfaction and health through DM facets. The nonjudging facet uniquely predicted higher satisfaction and trust, and lower romantic distress, whereas observing predicted sexual functioning. Nonjudging was also associated with fewer physical and mental health symptoms. Nonreacting and describing explained smaller effects for select psychological outcomes. Mediation analyses revealed that nonjudging mediated the link between satisfaction and health. Findings highlight nonjudging as a central predictor of overall functioning in LDR. Facet-level patterns diverged from the general relationship literature, suggesting greater reliance on cognitive-oriented facets in LDR. Mediation results advance the theoretical understanding of partnership-health associations. Considering the cross-sectional design, future longitudinal studies are needed to clarify temporal pathways.
Anand et al. (Wed,) studied this question.