El perdón en las relaciones de pareja y su relación con la diferenciación del self y el ajuste diádico

Abstract

Throughout the life cycle, the couple faces a series of challenges and tasks that require both the individual and the couple's level of effort for continuous adaptation (McGoldrick et al., 2016). In this adaptation process, individual goals and needs do not always align with the goals and needs of the couple, so conflicts and transgressions inevitably arise in a relationship (Metts, 1994). If conflicts are not handled appropriately, they can put the stability of the relationship at risk. In this sense, conflicts and transgressions can produce annoyance, anger, pain or distrust. The way in which these experiences are regulated affects the satisfaction and stability of the relationship, and therefore the probability that the relationship continues or ends (Fincham et al., 2006). Brunette et al. (2014) propose forgiveness as a way to regulate emotional states and repair the relationship. There are several studies that confirm that forgiveness contributes to the relationship well-being (Fahimdanesh et al., 2020; Fincham, 2000; Fincham and Beach, 2002; Paleari et al., 2009). However, there is a risk that this forgiveness would not be genuine. In this sense, some authors refer to mechanisms and variables that difficult the real process of forgiveness, which can lead to what is called pseudo-forgiveness (Lawler-Row at al., 2007). Given the relevance of forgiveness in the context of couple relationships, this work aims to investigate the dimensions of forgiveness and pseudo-forgiveness in couple relationships in relation to different variables, such as dyadic adjustment, the life cycle, the characteristics of the couple and repair strategies. Furthermore, it is intended to analyze the role of differentiation of self (DoS) in the forgiveness process. To do this, first the theoretical foundation of this research is addressed and then three empirical studies are presented. Regarding the first study, given the lack of instruments available in Spanish, a validation study of the EFI-30 (Enright Forgivness Inventory-30) was carried out, which allows evaluating specific interpersonal forgiveness. In the second study, the process of forgiveness and pseudo-forgiveness after an offense in couple relationships is analyzed, as well as the role of DoS. Finally, regarding the third study, the existence of psychological profiles based on the levels of DoS (reactivity and emotional cut-off) is explored to determine the differences in levels of forgiveness and repair strategies associated with them. Finally, the conclusions section briefly presents the main contributions of this research.