Abstract
Although mindfulness and gratitude are both positive factors in relationship functioning, it remains unclear whether these two related variables represent unique contributions to relationships or are capitalizing on shared variance. The present study tests whether mindfulness and gratitude each account for unique variance in relationship satisfaction. The present sample consists of 76 married couples (N = 152) with an average relationship length of 24.25 years. Consistent with hypotheses, results indicate when controlling for gratitude individual mindfulness predicts one’s own but not one’s spouse’s relationship satisfaction. In addition, individual gratitude uniquely predicts both one’s own and one’s spouse’s relationship satisfaction. Contrary to expectations, individual mindfulness does not predict one’s spouse’s relationship satisfaction. Taken together, these findings suggest gratitude and mindfulness are related yet distinct constructs that uniquely contribute to relationship functioning. Results are interpreted in the context of relationship enrichment and suggestions are given for future research.
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Hogan, J.N., Gordon, C.L. “Six of One, Half a Dozen of Another” or Do Mindfulness and Gratitude Each Add Unique Value to Relationship Functioning?. Contemp Fam Ther 42, 299–304 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-020-09534-w
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-020-09534-w