Romantic relationships and emotional difficulties and post-traumatic growth during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of the study was to assess the level of emotional difficulties and post-traumatic growth in accordance with relationship quality and attachment style in a romantic relationship in view of selected sociodemographic variables. Material and methods The cross-sectional study was conducted online in March 2022, and the subject of analysis is data on 1,332 adults in a relationship. The Post-Traumtic Growth (PTG) scale was used to measure post-traumatic growth, the Pandemic Emotional Difficulties (Pandemic-ED) scale was used to measure pandemic-related emotional difficulties. Relationship quality was measured with the Short Love Scale 12 (SLS-12) and The Experiences in Close Relationships-Relationship Structures (ECR-RS) scale. Results Emotional difficulties were shown to be lower among those in relationships rated more positively, and rates of post-traumatic growth increased as relationship scores increased. Conclusions The results presented allow to understand the impact of romantic relationships on individuals' functioning, thus providing indications for those working in the field of couples counseling.

Keywords

• sexual life
• post-traumatic growth
• romantic relationships
• mental health
• emotional difficulties