Jealousy is an emotion experienced by many individuals during their adolescence that can have lasting effects into adulthood. Adolescent experiences of jealousy may lead to controlling or possessive behavior in adulthood which can affect the level of trust and relational satisfaction between partners. This study seeks to explore the relationship between these factors and provide insight into how they impact future relationships.
The researchers recruited participants through online advertising and social media platforms who were aged 18-24 years old and asked them to complete a survey about their current romantic relationships. The survey included questions regarding past experiences of jealousy, levels of possessiveness towards their partner, feelings of trust in their partner, and overall satisfaction with the relationship.
Results showed that those who reported experiencing higher levels of jealousy during adolescence were more likely to engage in controlling or possessive behaviors in their adult relationships. These behaviors included monitoring their partner's whereabouts, checking their phone or email for messages from other people, and making demands for exclusive access to their partner. These behaviors could negatively impact the level of trust in the relationship, as it suggests a lack of faith in the partner's fidelity. Participants who engaged in these behaviors also reported lower levels of satisfaction with their relationship.
Conclusions drawn from this study suggest that addressing adolescent jealousy may be important in preventing future problems with trust and satisfaction in adult relationships. It is possible that teaching healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with jealousy in adolescence could help individuals avoid these types of negative behaviors later on.
Therapy or counseling may be beneficial for individuals struggling with high levels of jealousy in order to develop better communication skills and increase trust in their partners.
How do adolescent experiences of jealousy predict controlling or possessive behaviors in adulthood, and how do these behaviors influence trust and relational satisfaction?
Jealousy refers to feelings of fear or anxiety that arise when one is threatened by real or imagined loss of something precious. In adolescence, jealousy may manifest as fear or distrust towards friends, parents, romantic partners, or peers.