We have pondered this question at some point in our relations, and this is precisely what probed the researchers from Florida State University to explore. The benefits of a satisfying relationship on our mental and physical health are widely noted. The motivation to lead a healthy life encourages individuals to seek factors that promote relationship satisfaction.
One such factor shown to increase relationship satisfaction is trait mindfulness, which is defined as ‘an individual’s predisposition to be mindful and attentive to the present moment in a non-judgmental way.’ Recent research is increasingly highlighting the role of forgiveness in improving relationship satisfaction. But, the link between the three (trait mindfulness, forgiveness and relationship satisfaction) has not yet been studied together.
The researchers were interested in understanding if forgiveness acts as a mechanism by which mindfulness relates to relationship satisfaction. They speculated that being mindful would allow individuals to be aware of their own and their partners’ emotions in a non-judgmental and non-reactive way. The increased awareness would make people more forgiving of partner transgressions, thereby enhancing relationship satisfaction.
“…mindfulness increases an individual’s tendency to forgive partner wrongdoings, enhancing relationship satisfaction.”
They based this argument on the interpersonal theory, which posits that, because of the interdependent nature of a relationship, ‘romantic partners influence each other’s tendency to respond to a given situation’. To test this, the researchers recruited 226 couples who had been in an opposite-sex relationship for over two years.
In support of their speculation and extant studies, the researchers found that higher levels of mindfulness are linked with forgiveness, indicating that mindful individuals consider their partners less blameworthy following transgressions. Interestingly, the study also found an association between mindfulness and relationship satisfaction only for female participants. Subsequent research can further explore gender differences between mindfulness and relationship satisfaction.
The researchers also found an indirect link between trait mindfulness, forgiveness and relationship satisfaction, suggesting that forgiveness acts as a catalyst between mindfulness and relationship satisfaction for male and female partners. This is in line with the possibility that mindfulness increases an individual’s tendency to forgive partner wrongdoings, enhancing relationship satisfaction. Another interesting finding was that males with a higher tendency to forgive had female partners with higher levels of relationship satisfaction and vice versa. Put differently, an individual’s ability to be forgiving and mindful influences their partner’s relationship satisfaction along with their ability and willingness to forgive.
This study emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and mindfulness in enhancing relationship satisfaction. It also aptly implies that practicing mindfulness strengthens an individual and their partner’s relationship satisfaction. Apart from personal implications, these findings hold clinical relevance for working with couples facing relationship difficulties. However, future studies can incorporate diverse ethnic identities and relationship types since this study solely focused on White/Caucasian heterosexual couples. It is also vital to consider the context of transgression when studying forgiveness, as it can impact one’s tendency to forgive.
Arushi is a recent Master’s graduate in Applied Psychology from Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai, and a prospective Ph.D. applicant. She has worked around mindfulness, relaxation techniques, trauma, and wellbeing, and she is motivated to share the benefits of mindfulness-based practices.
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