Effect and Predictive Role of Gratitude, Forgiveness, and Perceived Social Support on Relationship Satisfaction and Conflict Resolution in Young Adults

Abstract

This study was to understand the role of gratitude, forgiveness, and perceived social support on relationship satisfaction and conflict resolution styles among romantic partners in young adults. A total of 109 participants, aged 20 to 27 and currently in romantic relationships, completed self-report measures including Gratitude Questionnaire–6 (GQ-6), Transgression-Related Interpersonal Motivations Inventory (TRIM-18), Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), Conflict Resolution Styles Inventory (CRI), and the Couples Satisfaction Index (CSI-16). Data was collected via online and paper-based surveys, and statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS. Descriptive and correlational analyses revealed that both gratitude (r = .223, p < .05) and perceived social support (r = .446, p < .01) were positively associated with relationship satisfaction, while compliance and conflict engagement were negatively correlated. Gratitude and support were also significantly related to the use of Conflict Resolution strategies, such as positive problem-solving strategies during conflict. In regression analyses, perceived social support emerged as the strongest predictor of relationship satisfaction (β = .457, p < .001), while forgiveness did not significantly predict satisfaction or conflict resolution styles. These findings suggest that gratitude and perceived social support are robust predictors of relational well-being, while forgiveness may play a more context-dependent role. The results support and emphasize the importance of emotional resources and supportive interpersonal dynamics in fostering satisfaction and constructive conflict management.