Shyness and Communication: Impact on Self and Partner Relationship Satisfaction

Keywords

shyness, communication, self-disclosure, empathy, relationship satisfaction

Abstract

The present research explored the importance of shyness and communication-related variables (self-disclosure and expressions of empathy) in the prediction of romantic relationship satisfaction. Couples in established romantic relationships (N = 4,298) completed RELATE (RELATionship Evaluation), a questionnaire designed to evaluate the relationship between romantically linked partners. We hypothesized there would be a direct, inverse relationship between shyness and relationship satisfaction mediated by communication behaviors. We found shyness was associated with lower levels of self and partner relationship satisfaction for both males and females; however, this relationship was mediated by communication behaviors. Clinical implications for couples and therapists are discussed.

Original Publication Citation

Luster, S. S., Nelson, L. J., & Busby, D. M. (2013). Shyness and communication: Impact on self and partner relationship satisfaction. Journal of Couple and Relationship Therapy, 12, 359-376.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2013-10-28

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/7427

Publisher

Journal of Couple & Relationship Therapy

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Family Life

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS