Comparing simultaneously the effects of extra-dyadic and intra-dyadic experiences on relationship outcomes

Abstract

This study simultaneously examines everyday negative and positive experiences that affect persons either outside of the intimate relationship (extra-dyadic) or within (intra-dyadic). In addition, we investigate whether the partner’s responses to each of these experiences mediate the link between experience and relationship outcomes. Altogether, 447 individuals who were currently in a relationship filled out an online questionnaire. Self-report measures included extra- and intra-dyadic everyday experiences of negative and positive events as well as corresponding partner responses and relationship satisfaction. Multigroup path analyses revealed that both negative and positive extra-dyadic experiences affect negative and positive intra-dyadic experiences of women, whereas the effects of positive extra-dyadic experiences had mixed effects for men. Furthermore, the perceived partner responses in each of the four experiences were found to be an important predictor with one exception for men’s intra-dyadic positive experiences.