Adverse childhood experiences and romantic relationship satisfaction of Turkish emerging adults: the role of dyadic coping

Abstract

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can negatively affect relationship satisfaction and quality in adulthood. The current study aims to explore the direct and indirect associations of ACEs and romantic relationship satisfaction and examine whether dyadic coping could be a potential protective mechanism against ACEs. Participants (N = 361) were recruited through social media platforms and word of mouth. The study's eligibility criteria were being 18 to 30 years old, unmarried, and in a committed relationship for at least six months. Participants completed online surveys through Qualtrics. Structural equation modeling analysis revealed that ACEs were negatively associated with dyadic coping and relationship satisfaction. Besides, dyadic coping was positively associated with relationship satisfaction. Dyadic coping partially mediated the relationship between ACEs and relationship satisfaction. There were no moderating effects of gender or individual coping style in the final structural equation model. These findings illustrate that adults with a history of ACEs may be less satisfied in romantic relationships, yet they may benefit from dyadic coping strategies. Results have implications for clinical practice, underscoring the utility of assessing ACEs of partners in couples therapy, addressing ACEs and their potential spillover effects in romantic relationships, and promoting dyadic coping skills to improve couples' relational well-being.