Self-differentiation, Schemas, and Future Time Orientation in Romantic Relationships Among Young Adults

Priyanka  Mittal; Manjula  M

Authors

Priyanka Mittal Department of Clinical Psychology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore -560029, Karnataka state, India
Manjula M Professor of Clinical Psychology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, Bangalore -560029, Karnataka state, India

Keywords:

Young Adults, Future Time Orientation in Romantic Relationship, Early Maladaptive Schemas, Differentiation of Self

Abstract

The study explored self-schemas, differentiation of self and future time orientation in relation to the romantic relationship status of young adults (18-30). A cross-sectional exploratory design with purposive sampling was adopted. A sample of 344 unmarried participants responded to the socio-demographic data sheet, Young Schema Questionnaire- S3, Differentiation of Self Inventory- R and Future Time Orientation in Romantic Relationships. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, correlation coefficients and multiple regressions were employed for analysis. Among the participants, 65% had been in a romantic relationship at least once. Those who were ever in a romantic relationship had higher scores on schemas of insufficient self-control and admiration seeking compared to those who were never in any relationships. The younger age group (18-24) scored higher on all schema domains in comparison to the older age group (25-30) and males had higher mean scores than females. Differentiation of self was higher in those who never had any romantic relationship and in the older age group. Overall high future time orientation was noted for the group. No significant differences across age, gender and relationship status and no predictor for future orientation were identified. There is a need to understand the study variables in the cultural context. Future research may consider prospective studies across the age groups to see the dynamic nature of these constructs and the influence of social-cultural factors.

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