Percepções sobre o amor, a qualidade e a satisfação com o relacionamento em casais

Abstract

Guided by Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Love, this Master’ thesis advances an investigation about the perception of love by both wives and husbands. Love components (intimacy, passion and decision/commitment) will be related to other variables, such as depression, anxiety, satisfaction, and the couples’ relationship quality. It also sets off to verify some predictors of quality and satisfaction in a relationship. A total of 50 couples participated in the research. Their average relationship time ranges from 13 to 78 years together and their age ranges from 24 to 60 years old. The couples responded the following research tools: General Information Questionnaire, Sternberg’s Triangular Love Scale (ETAS), Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS), Beck’s Inventory of Anxiety and Depression (BAI, BDI). Data were analysed via linear regression and the use of the t test to independent and dependent variables. The results indicate that there is no significant difference between husbands’ perception of love and that of their