Gender Role Conflict, Gay Identity, Relationship Love Types and Relationship Satisfaction in Greek Gay Men: A Path Model

Abstract

We examined the relations between Gender Role Conflict (GRC) patterns, Gay Identity, Relationship Satisfaction (RS) and three of Sternberg’s Relationship Love Types (Fatuous Love, Infatuation, Companionate Love). Self-identified gay men (n = 232) completed an online survey. A path model showed that Companionate Love Type mediated effects upon RS. Specifically, (a) the negative effects of GRC patterns, Restricted Emotionality, Restricted Affectionate Behaviour Between Men and Success, Power, and Competition, (b) the negative effect of the Gay Identity dimension, Internalized Homonegativity and (c) the negative effect of Infatuation and the positive effect of Fatuous love. Conclusively, GRC and Gay Identity seem to negatively affect the emotional exchange and communication between partners and their overall subjective evaluation of the relationship. Acceptance and empowerment by the significant other or negotiating one’s role in the relationship may be a better “territory” of confronting and managing Gay Identity and GRC issues in ameliorating one’s relationship.