Gambling Disorder and Romantic Relationships: The role of positive communication and emotional dysregulation in couple satisfaction

Although gambling disorder (GD) may affect romantic relationships, and these may influence its prevention and intervention, there is a gap about this issue in the literature. People with GD present greater emotional dysregulation, and lack of communication and couple satisfaction is observed in their romantic relationships. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were, first, to explore the differences between couple satisfaction, positive communication and emotional dysregulation in individuals with GD and their partners. Second, to analyse the relationships between the variables in GD patients, their partners, and betwen the couple members. Third, to study the predictive role of positive communication and emotional dysregulation in couple satisfaction. The sample comprised 30 people: 15 male individuals with gambling disorder and their respective female partners. Results showed that the partners scored lower in couple satisfaction. Likewise, positive correlations were found between communication and satisfaction, but only the partners' emotional dysregulation significantly correlated with the aforementioned variables. Finally, only positive communication predicted couple satisfaction. Consequently, it is argued that communication and emotion-regulation skills in romantic relationships could influence the development, maintenance, and rehabilitation of GD. Providing comprehensive care that enhances romantic relationships could be beneficial because both individuals can reciprocally influence each other's mental health.