Brescia Psychology Undergraduate Honours Theses

Date of Award

Spring 4-12-2021

Program

Psychology

Supervisor

Dr. Anne Barnfield

Abstract

Research has already established the importance of social networks in developing and maintaining well-being. Furthermore, different types of social relationships have been found to influence individuals’ lives in unique ways. There is little understanding, however, of the manner in which relationship types compare in their effects on individuals’ psychological well-being. Using a correlational design, this study investigated the associations between relationship intimacy and psychological well-being. Relationship intimacy was measured for respondents’ parents, significant others, close friends, and pets. The surveys were distributed to 91 undergraduate students and combined the Miller Social Intimacy Scale (MSIS) and Ryff’s Scales of Psychological Well-being (SPWB) to assess respondents’ relationships and psychological well-being, respectively. The results of two regression analyses revealed that intimacy in relationships with one’s significant other and close friends were significant predictors of wellbeing, though specific mechanisms of influence could not be established. Further research opportunities include diversifying the study sample and investigating the creation of a standardized scale to more accurately measure intimacy across different relationship types.

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