Effects of similarity of life goals, values, and personality on relationship satisfaction and stability

Findings from a two‐wave panel study

Bibliographic Data

ID18958367
AuthorsOliver Arránz Becker (0000-0002-6690-7866, Chemnitz University of Technology, corresponding author)
Year2013
Volume20
Issue3
Pages443-461
Publication date2013-09-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenuePersonal Relationships (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1350-4126 • E-ISSN: 1475-6811
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/j.1475-6811.2012.01417.x
OpenAlexW2040157999
LanguageEN
Citations received27
References cited64

Using data from the German Family Panel (pairfam; n = 3,674 heterosexual couples), this study examines the impact of partners’ individual levels and dyadic similarity concerning life goals, values, and personality traits on relationship satisfaction and union dissolution. Controlling for partners’ individual characteristics and for relationship duration, it was found that similarity on specific dimensions and stereotype‐adjusted profile correlations exerted significant yet small positive effects on both partners’ relationship satisfaction. These effects largely translated into beneficial indirect effects on union dissolution 1 year later (Wave 2, n = 2,820). Moderator analyses indicated the existence of some effect heterogeneity across relationship duration and types. Generally, partners’ respective individual characteristics appeared to predict relationship outcomes better than dyadic similarity measures

Developmental psychology · German · Life satisfaction · Moderation · Personality · Positive relationship · Attachment and Relationship Dynamics · Family Dynamics and Relationships · Marriage and Sexual Relationships · Psychology · Social Psychology

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