Relationship between Differentiation of Self, Love Languages, and Marital Satisfaction

Abstract

The present study aimed to find the relationship between Differentiation of Self, Love Languages, and Marital Satisfaction. Data was collected from married individuals (N=250) from the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi of age range 25-45. Convenient sampling technique was used for the collection of data. To measure the study variables, three instruments were used i.e., the Differentiation of Self Inventory- Short form (DSI-SF), Five Love Languages Scale (LLs) and ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale (EMS). Results revealed a positive relationship between Differentiation of Self, Love Languages, and Marital Satisfaction. Further results showed that greater fusion with others and emotional reactivity also positively predicted marital satisfaction. It was also noted that among the aspects of love languages, quality time and words of affirmation were found to be significant predictors of relationship satisfaction. No difference was found between men and women in martial satisfaction, however men scored significantly higher than women on idealized distortion. Furthermore, no difference was found in marital satisfaction and idealized distortion between arranged and love marriages. Also, marriage duration was found to be positively correlated marital satisfaction, and marital satisfaction was found to be positively correlated with idealized distortion. The study has implications in marital counseling and relationship counseling. In addition to that, limitations and recommendations for future research along with practical implications were also discussed.