Factor Analysis of Intimate Relationship Satisfaction: Effects of Self-esteem and Self-Compassion on Emotion Regulation

Abstract

Intimate relationship satisfaction reflects an individual's perception of their current intimate relationship and assesses the extent of their attachment experiences. High levels of intimate relationships are crucial for maintaining individual psychological health, inspiring positive behaviors, and enhancing overall happiness in life. One fundamental element of adult attachment involves the management of emotional discomfort within close and romantic interpersonal connections, which can manifest in various forms, including cognitive reappraisal, expression suppression, attention diversion, and emotional venting. Therefore, to study the factors that enhance satisfaction in intimate relationships, psychologists need to investigate the factors that influence people's choice of emotion regulation strategies. Self-esteem (SE) and self-compassion (SC), as core components of the ego structure, can influence an individual's decision-making when faced with difficult emotions (sadness, anger, anxiety). Thus, this article proposes a hypothesis that the levels of SC and SE will affect individuals’ tendency towards emotional regulation. In this article, a review analysis will be conducted to support the existence of this relationship and to indicate that emotional regulation behaviors mediated by high levels of SC and SE are beneficial for improving intimate relationship satisfaction. The study is expected to provide theoretical guidance for interventions and practices aimed at helping people better understand the key factors that influence intimate relationship satisfaction and enhancing emotional regulation skills to improve the quality of intimate relationships.