Digital Co-Regulation and Dysregulation in Romantic Relationships: A Systemic Model of Technology-Mediated Emotional Processes

Technology has become an integral context through which romantic relationships are initiated, maintained, and experienced globally. While prior research has emphasized communication and connection, less attention has been given to how technology functions as a mechanism of emotional regulation within relationships. In the current qualitative study, we examined how individuals use technology to navigate relational processes across cultural contexts. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 31 participants and analyzed using the constant comparative method, an iterative process in which data are coded and continuously compared within and across interviews to identify and refine emergent themes. Findings revealed expected patterns in the use of technology during relationship initiation and termination, but also an emergent pattern highlighted the role of technology in processes of digital co-regulation and dysregulation. These findings suggest that technology operates as an embedded regulatory mechanism within romantic systems. Implications are discussed for systemic theory, cross-cultural research, and clinical practice.