Romantic Experiences in Emerging Adults: How They Relate to the Importance of Romantic Relationships and the Quality of Relationships with Parents

Abstract

This study examined the link between perceived romantic
relationship (RR) importance (relationship desire and
dismissal) and emerging adults' romantic experiences,
including relationship status, number of partnerships, and
relationship durations. It also explored how individuation
from parents contributes to the prediction of these experiences.
Participants (N = 464, 64.4% female, Mage = 22.59)
reported on their romantic relationship importance,
relationship experiences, and perceived connectedness and
intrusiveness from parents. Hierarchical regression analyses
revealed that perceived RR importance significantly
contributed to the prediction of romantic experiences beyond
demographic factors. Additionally, paternal intrusiveness
negatively predicted the duration of current and longest
relationships. The findings suggest that RR importance and
individuation, especially in relation to the father, play an
important role in emerging adults' romantic experiences.