Grassi, M., Bastiani, F., Beltramini, L., Feresin, M., & Romito, P.
Are feminist heterosexual couples happier? The mediating role of partner choice
Feminism is considered an obstacle to heterosexual relationships, yet, this issue has rarely been investigated. Using a sample of 419 female university students (M = 20.7y, SD = 2.22), we tested the following hypotheses: single women are more likely to be feminist than women in a heterosexual relationship; feminists, when in a couple, are more likely to have a relationship with a pro-feminist man; this is associated with a better relationship. Results confirm our hypotheses: single women are more likely to be feminist than women involved in a couple. When feminists have a partner, they tend to choose a pro-feminist man; these relationships are more likely to be satisfactory and free from violence. Mediation analysis revealed that feminism indirectly plays a protective role against low-quality relationships, by helping to avoid anti-feminist partners. The study provides evidence for the protective role of being feminist in heterosexual relationships, and points out the importance of disseminating and supporting the feminist perspective.
Testing, Psychometrics, Methodology in Applied Psychology, 2022, Vol. 29, pp. 167-186, DOI: 10.4473/TPM29.2.1
