The Intricacies of Emotional Suppression and Its Profound Impacts on the Fabric of Romantic Relationships

Abstract

This study examines emotional repression, communication styles, and relationship happiness. Numerous psychological studies have shown that emotional suppression—trying to control emotions by not expressing them—harms relationships. However, this study seeks to determine if better communication can reduce the negative effects of emotional suppression on relationship happiness. This quantitative cross-sectional study examined emotional suppression, communication, and relationship satisfaction in 105 people. Repressing feelings did not predict relationship satisfaction. The correlation analysis shows a weak negative relationship (r = -0.15) between emotional suppression and communication. Repressing emotions may lead to less honest conversations with partners. However, communication was positively correlated with relationship satisfaction (r = 0.53), proving that healthy relationships require good communication. Regression analysis revealed that suppressing emotions did not directly cause dissatisfaction (β = -0.008, p = 0.94), but communication strongly predicted relationship satisfaction (β = 0.49, p < 0.001). Due to communication, couples can maintain a fulfilling relationship even when one or both partners suppress emotions, according to these findings. The study’s findings emphasize the need for interventions that improve communication rather than emotional suppression, which can benefit relationship counseling and therapy. Cultural implications arise from emotional suppression shaped by social norms. Healthy communication may protect against dissatisfaction in suppressive cultures. Due to its cross-sectional design and self-reported data, this study needs longitudinal and observational methods to improve. Despite the belief that emotional suppression hurts relationships, the study shows that effective communication is the key to understanding its effects. Open, supportive communication helps partners overcome emotional suppression without compromising their romantic relationships.