The self and perceived-partner: similarity as a predictor of relationship satisfaction

Similarity of mental representations on the dimensions on a five-factor model of personality did not provide significant prediction of relationship satisfaction for a sample of 79 heterosexual dating couples. Using the Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness to Experience Personality Inventory (NEO PI) of McCrae and Costa (1985), this study investigated similarity of self-ratings of partners in couples, similarity of self- and partner-ratings within individuals, similarity of partner-ratings between members of a couple, and similarity of partner-ratings and partner's self-ratings as possible predictors of relationship satisfaction.

The love attitudes measured by the Love Attitudes Scale (LAS) of Hendrick and Hendrick (1986; 1990) had correlates with self- and partner-ratings on the five-factor personality instrument, the NEO PI. Strongest among these findings was that endorsement of the love attitude of Ludus negatively correlated with self-ratings on the personality dimension of Agreeableness for both men and women. Also, the love attitude of Mania correlated with self-ratings on the personality dimension of Neuroticism for both women and men, as hypothesized. In addition, the love attitude of Agape correlated with self-ratings on the personality dimension of Conscientiousness for women only.

This study replicated S. S. Hendrick, Hendrick, and Adler (1988) and found endorsement of Eros positively associated and endorsement of Ludus negatively associated with relationship satisfaction for participants and their partners. The current study also found a strong association between Agape endorsement and relationship satisfaction for participants and their partners.

Some additional post hoc findings are discussed, along with suggestions for further research.