۱- Introduction

۲- Method

۳- Results

۴- Discussion

۵- Conclusion

References

Abstract

This study aimed to advance understanding of RST personality and romantic relationships. It examined the link between revised Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory (RST) and relationship satisfaction via the mediator mastery. The sample consisted of 110 United States participants who reported being in an exclusive relationship. The measures examined were Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory Personality Questionnaire (RST-PQ), Relationship Assessment Scale (RAS), and Jackson’s Mastery scale. The results highlight that revised Behavioral Approach Systems (BAS) and Reward Interest (BAS-RI) predicted relationship satisfaction. Mastery mediated BAS, BAS-RI, and Reward Reactivity (BAS-RR) with relationship satisfaction. Additionally, revised Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS) and Impulsivity (BAS-IMP) negatively predicted relationship satisfaction. Individuals with high reward sensitivity and mastery may put more cognitive effort into a romantic relationship believing it is a goal that will reward them with happiness.

Introduction

Healthy romantic relationships are good for well-being and have wide spread benefits. A key factor for healthy romantic relationships is personality (Del Giudice, Gangestad, & Kaplan, 2015). Many studies have shown the “Big Five” personality dimensions relate to romantic relationships (White, Hendrick, & Hendrick, 2004). However, the role of RST in romantic relationships is still largely unknown. RST is one of the major biological models of individual differences in motivation, emotion, and learning that links reinforcement processes with personality (Collins, Jackson, Walker, O’Connor, & Gardiner, 2017). The application of RST to practical real-world outcomes are much needed. Empirical support is lacking for the many individuals wanting to know how to have healthy relationships when statistics show one in three American marriages end in divorce (Marcassa, 2013). Individuals dealing with divorce can face negative personal, social, and economic consequences (Hollander, 2017). Clinicians, at best, have modest results of evidence-based therapy in controlled trials, while evidence for the effectiveness of community-based services lag behind (Schofield, Mumford, Jurkovic, Jurkovic, & Bickerdike, 2012). Therefore, research in this field is vital. A well-known indicator of healthy romantic relationships is relationship satisfaction. The purpose of this study is to examine the links between RST and relationship satisfaction via the mediator mastery. The components of RST explored were the Behavioral Approach Systems (BAS) and the Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS).