Relationship satisfaction in Argentinean couples under economic strain: Gender differences in a dyadic stress model

Abstract

This study tested a dyadic stress model that inter-partner psychological aggression and positive behaviors mediate the negative association between economic strain and couples’ relationship satisfaction. Heterosexual couples at a large community clinic in Argentina (N = 144 couples) completed self-report questionnaires three years after the initiation of a major economic crisis. Path analytic results indicated that gender differences — greater male and female psychological aggression, and lower female positive behaviors — mediated the link between male economic strain and female relationship satisfaction. No significant paths were found from female economic strain to male relationship satisfaction. Implications for research, clinical practice, and the advancement of a dyadic model of economic strain are discussed.