Emotional dependence is defined as an excessive need for affection by the couple. The aim
of this study was to analyze the relation between self-esteem, emotional dependence and
psychological abuse, to analyze the mediating role of emotional dependence between selfesteem
and psychological abuse, as well as differences in emotional dependence as a function
of gender and sexual orientation. The sample comprised 550 young Spanish participants (462
women and 88 men; 498 heterosexual and 52 homosexual) aged between 18 and 29 years
old (M = 21.16, SD = 2.41). Results showed no difference in emotional dependence between
women and men, and heterosexuals and homosexuals. Emotional dependence was found
to totally mediate the relationship between self-esteem and received psychological abuse
(humiliation and control), between self-esteem and exercised psychological abuse (humiliation
and control), and to partially mediate the relationship between self-esteem and exercised
psychological abuse (social isolation). These results may provide new keys to the incorporation
of emotional dependence in psychological abuse prevention programs.
Authors
-
Irache Urbiola - Universidad de Deusto
-
Ana Estévez - Universidad de Deusto
-
Itziar Iruarrizaga - Universidad Complutense de Madrid
-
Janire Momeñe - Universidad de Deusto
-
Paula Jáuregui - Universidad de Deusto
-
María Bilbao - Universidad de Deusto
-
Usue Orbegozo - Universidad de Deusto
Keywords:
Emotional dependence; Psychological violence; Dating; Self-esteem; Gender.