Relational Identity and Relationship Functioning in Emerging Adulthood: A Brief Report

Developing a coherent sense of self and establishing a long-term relationship are two developmental tasks during emerging adulthood. Guided by psychosocial developmental theory, this study explores the associations between relational identity processes (commitment, in-depth exploration, reconsideration of commitments) and relationship outcomes (satisfaction and stability) using a large sample of Spanish emerging adults in a romantic relationship. Results revealed that commitment as part of relational identity is associated with higher relationship satisfaction and stability, while reconsideration of commitments is associated with lower relationship satisfaction and stability. Gender acted as a moderator between in-depth exploration and relationship outcomes, with males reporting more positive associations compared to females. This study expands identity theory by demonstrating how relational identity is crucial when understanding relationship outcomes in emerging adulthood.