When only one of us thinks the discussion went well: How positive illusions impact relationship satisfaction following disagreements

Abstract

Past research has shown that having positive illusions about ones' general relationship increases relationship satisfaction. The present research examines how positive illusions about a specific conflict influences the relationship, while examining both partners' perspective on the conflict and the relationship. One hundred and nine couples (N= 218) were recruited via crowdsourcing to participate in an online self-report questionnaire about experiences of positive illusions and recent conflict in their relationship. Self-esteem was assessed as a moderator. Results were mixed: Participants who held positive illusions about how their partner felt during the conflict experienced greater relationship satisfaction. However, positive illusions about how fair the interaction was and positive illusions about partner's feelings about the relationship were not significantly linked to satisfaction. Further, participant's positive illusions did not affect their partner's relationship satisfaction. No moderating effects of self-esteem were found. Further research is needed to understand when positive illusions might be beneficial or detrimental to romantic relationships.