Gender Differences in the Influence of Spirituality and Conflict Resolution Strategies on Couple Satisfaction in Peruvian Adults

Abstract

Objective: We analyzed how spirituality and conflict resolution strategies relate to couple satisfaction, examining gender differences among adults living in Lima. Methodology: A nonexperimental, cross-sectional, quantitative, predictive design was employed with a convenience sample of 339 adults (46.6% women and 53.4% men). Participants completed the Spirituality Questionnaire, the Conflict Management Strategies Scale, and the Relationship Assessment Scale. Models were estimated using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling, separately by gender. Results: Gender-specific patterns emerged. Among men, time invested in conflict resolution was positively associated with satisfaction (β = 0.382, f² = 0.117), whereas reflective communication related negatively (β = −0.542, f² = 0.091). Among women, avoidance correlated positively with satisfaction (β = 0.444, f² = 0.070), whereas time spent discussing conflicts correlated negatively (β = −0.141, f² = 0.018). Spiritual self-awareness showed a small negative association with satisfaction in both genders. Conclusions: Couple satisfaction is influenced by the interplay between spirituality and conflict strategies in gender-differentiated ways. Results reflect individual perceptions of relational quality rather than dyadic interactions. Future research should include partner-matched, longitudinal designs to clarify causal mechanisms.