Emotion regulation dimensions and relationship satisfaction in clinical couples

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

The present study explored the relation between the multidimensional construct of emotion regulation and relationship satisfaction in 104 couples seeking couple or family therapy. Satisfaction was assessed via the Dyadic Satisfaction Subscale of the Dyadic Adjustment Scale, whereas the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale was used to assess the 6 dimensions of emotion regulation (acceptance, goals, impulse, awareness, strategies, clarity). Significant relations were found between relationship satisfaction and acceptance, impulse, awareness, and strategies. Relations were not always found in expected directions, and although actor effects were found for both genders, only women displayed partner effects. Findings point to the importance of considering context when studying emotion regulation and highlight the clinical importance of evaluating its specific dimensions.