LESS FUSION WITH OTHERS, AND MORE I-POSITION AS A KEY TO ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIP QUALITY AMONG EMERGING ADULTS

This study aims to investigate the association between the dimensions of differentiation of self-emotional reactivity, I-position, emotional cutoff, and fusion with others- and perceived romantic relationship quality among Turkish emerging adults. The sample consists of 424 individuals aged 18 to 29 who have been in a romantic relationship for at least six months. Data were collected using the Perceived Relationship Quality Components Inventory, Differentiation of Self Inventory- Short Form, and a demographic form. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was performed to determine whether the dimensions of differentiation of self-predict overall perceived romantic relationship quality, after controlling for gender, student status, education, income, and relationship type. Results revealed that I-position and the low level of fusion with others positively albeit weakly predicted perceived romantic relationship quality. In contrast, emotional reactivity and emotional cutoff were not significant predictors of perceived romantic relationship quality. The findings were discussed in relation to the relevant literature, with implications highlighted, and recommendations presented.