Gambling Disorder and Romantic Relationships: The role of positive communication and emotional dysregulation in couple satisfaction

TL;DR

This study explores how gambling disorder affects romantic relationships, focusing on communication and emotional regulation as factors influencing relationship satisfaction.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel analysis of how positive communication and emotional dysregulation affect couple satisfaction in gambling disorder contexts.

Findings

Partners of individuals with gambling disorder reported lower couple satisfaction.

Positive communication was found to predict higher couple satisfaction.

Emotional dysregulation in partners significantly correlated with relationship variables.

Abstract

Although gambling disorder (GD) may affect romantic relationships, and these may influence its prevention and intervention, there is a gap about this issue in the literature. People with GD present greater emotional dysregulation, and lack of communication and couple satisfaction is observed in their romantic relationships. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were, first, to explore the differences between couple satisfaction, positive communication and emotional dysregulation in individuals with GD and their partners. Second, to analyse the relationships between the variables in GD patients, their partners, and betwen the couple members. Third, to study the predictive role of positive communication and emotional dysregulation in couple satisfaction. The sample comprised 30 people: 15 male individuals with gambling disorder and their respective female partners. Results showed that the partners scored lower in couple satisfaction. Likewise, positive correlations were found between communication and satisfaction, but only the partners’ emotional dysregulation significantly correlated with the aforementioned variables. Finally, only positive communication predicted couple satisfaction. Consequently, it is argued that communication and emotion-regulation skills in romantic relationships could influence the development, maintenance, and rehabilitation of GD. Providing comprehensive care that enhances romantic relationships could be beneficial because both individuals can reciprocally influence each other’s mental health.