Abstract
This study investigates predictive accuracy of empathy in heterosexual couples as affected by satisfaction experienced in the relationship, type of relationship (e.g., friend, boy/girlfriend, or spouse), and amount of time invested in the relationship. 20 couples in each of three groups (friends, boy/girlfriends, and spouses) participated. Subjects were undergraduate, American psychology students and staff members at a mental health training facility. Relational satisfaction was measured by scores on a satisfaction scale. Empathy was assessed by the accuracy of predictions of scores of partners on a modified version of the Edwards Personal Preference Schedule. A significant r of .22 was obtained between satisfaction and empathy for all groups. Correlations were significant: .40 for paired friends, .11 for girlfriends, and .54 for female spouses. Length and type of relationship did not significantly correlate with empathy. Satisfaction with one's partner was positively related with empathy.
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