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Psychological research

Factors Associated With Psychological Distress Following Romantic Relationship Dissolutions

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Emerging adult students (EAS) experiencing romantic relationship dissolutions (RRDs) may face significant psychological distress, which can negatively impact identity development. A new study published in Current Psychology explores the factors contributing to RRDs and secondary psychological distress. Researchers at the University of Stellenbosch analyzed data from 886 EAS participants, assessing sociodemographic, relationship, and RRD variables associated with breakup distress scores.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found a significant association between the number of prior RRDs, relationship characteristics before the breakup, and characteristics of the breakup itself, and breakup distress scores.
  • Certain attachment styles moderated the associations between RRD variables and breakup distress scores.
  • The research highlights the importance of understanding the factors contributing to RRDs and secondary psychological distress to inform interventions mitigating the impact of significant psychological distress.
  • The study's findings suggest that EAS experiencing RRDs may benefit from targeted interventions addressing relationship characteristics, attachment styles, and psychosocial support.
  • The University of Stellenbosch, led by A. S. J. van der Watt, conducted the research, which received financial support from Stellenbosch University.
  • The study's authors, which include S. Seedat, M. Kidd, F. Scheffler, A. Roos, and E. Lesch, emphasize the need for further research on the role of attachment in RRDs and secondary psychological distress.

Statistics:

  • 886 EAS participants completed the demographic and romantic relationship questionnaire, attachment style measure, and Breakup Distress Scale (BDS).
  • The study found that 73% of participants experienced significant psychological distress following RRDs.
  • The research reported a significant association between the number of prior RRDs and breakup distress scores (p < 0.001).
  • Certain attachment styles (e.g., anxious-ambivalent) were found to moderate the associations between RRD variables and breakup distress scores (p < 0.05).

Sources:

  • Current Psychology, 2025
  • Psychology & Psychiatry Journal, November 1, 2025
  • Springer (www.springer.com)
  • NewsRx LLC (www.newsrx.com)
  • University of Stellenbosch (www.sun.ac.za)
  • A. S. J. van der Watt, et al. (2025) "Factors Associated With Psychological Distress Following Romantic Relationship Dissolutions and the Role of Attachment." Current Psychology, 2025.

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