Examining the relationship between uncertainty and anxiety disorder in romantic relationships

In this study, the relationship between uncertainty and anxiety levels in romantic relationships in adults was investigated. In the study, "Sociodemographic Information Form", "Future Time Perception in Romantic Relationships Scale", "Relationship Consistency Scale: Relationship Satisfaction Sub-Dimension", "Relational Uncertainty Scale" and "State-Trait Anxiety Inventory" were applied to 300 adult individuals. Participants gave online responses to the surveys due to the COVID 19 outbreak and its limitations. In the research, stability in romantic relationships, perception of future and uncertainty variables were examined to address relational uncertainty in romantic relationships. For anxiety levels, both trait and state anxiety levels were compared for understanding the degree of anxiety that the participants encounter. According to the findings of comparing the variables of gender, education level, income level, place of residence, duration of relationship and relationship experience with the levels of uncertainty and anxiety in romantic relationships, the perception of future in romantic relationships and the levels of uncertainty towards partners were found to be higher in male participants. In addition, relationship satisfaction levels were found to be significantly lower in participants whose relationship duration was less than one year. State anxiety scores were found to be significantly higher in participants who had only one romantic relationship experience so far. According to the findings on the predictors of relationship stability, relationship consistency were negatively correlated with relationship uncertainty subscales, trait and state anxiety level. Additionally, it was found that there is a positive and significant relationship with the perception of future in romantic relationships. In addition, it was concluded that the stability of the participants in romantic relationships was positively affected by the future perception in romantic relationships and negatively affected by the dimensions of relational uncertainty and state anxiety levels. It can be considered that the romantic relationship experience may be challenging for individuals who are more likely to encounter situations and events that can increase anxiety, and that the changing habits and routines as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic and social changes are reflected in the close relationships of individuals today. In this direction, it is anticipated that recent findings that can contribute to psychotherapeutic and psychoeducational interventions that can be developed with other furtherstudies on the anxiety levels of individuals and their experiences in close relationships can be obtained.