Similarity of Major Life-Event Perceptions and Relationship Satisfaction Among Romantic Couples: The Case of Moving in Together

This study examined the similarity of partners’ event perceptions of a major life event (i.e., moving in together as a couple) and how similarity relates to relationship satisfaction. Considering event perceptions from multiple individuals can enhance knowledge of the event itself and the relationship dynamics in which it occurs. Using multilevel models, we analyzed data from N = 400 participants (200 couples), who provided self- and partner-reported multidimensional event perceptions and ratings of relationship satisfaction at two assessments. First, we found evidence for similarity of self-reports and similarity of self- and partner reports between partners—higher than in random couples or due to normativeness. Second, higher similarity was related to higher relationship satisfaction. Third, similarity did not increase over time, and fourth, similarity did not co-develop with relationship satisfaction. Similarity of self-reports appears to be most relevant for relationship satisfaction, informing future research and potential intervention programs with couples.