Consensus, Need Fulfillment, Commitment, and Satisfaction in Couple Relationships: Structural Equation Modeling

ABSTRACT This study investigated a hypothesized model underlying the association between consensus on common topics in couple relationships and romantic relationship satisfaction, while investigating the roles of the need fulfillment of romantic partners and relationship commitment (i.e., dedication commitment) among a sample of 183 adults from the southeastern United States. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was conducted to test the theoretical model regarding how intimate partner/spouse consensus is associated with romantic relationship satisfaction. The results of SEM and path analyses revealed a good fit for the proposed structure, revealing that consensus on important issues in couple relationships was significantly linked with their engagement in fulfilling their partners' different needs. Engagement in helping fulfill romantic partners' needs and relationship commitment mediated the association between partner/spouse consensus and romantic relationship satisfaction. Implications for family life educators, dyadic couple researchers, and practitioners in marriage and family therapy are discussed.