Examination of relationships between self-efficacy in romantic relationships and self-determination and relationship-related cognitive distortion levels

This study aims to examine the relationships between university students' self-efficacy in romantic relationships, levels of self-determination (assertiveness), and cognitive distortions related to relationships. The research was conducted using a relational survey model. The sample consisted of 704 students (557 female, 147 male) enrolled in various faculties at Sakarya University during the 2024–2025 academic year, with participants ranging in age from below 18 to above 25. Data were collected using the Romantic Relationship Self-Efficacy Scale, the Voltan-Acar Self-Determination Inventory, and the Cognitive Distortions in Relationships Scale. The data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, and Kruskal-Wallis tests. The findings indicated a moderate, negative, and statistically significant relationship between self-efficacy in romantic relationships and the avoidance subscale of the self-determination inventory. Conversely, a low-level positive relationship was found with the assertiveness subscale. Additionally, negative and low-level significant correlations were observed between self-efficacy and the subdimensions of avoidance of intimacy and unrealistic relationship expectations in cognitive distortions. No significant association was found with the mind reading subscale. Regarding the connection between cognitive distortions and self-determination, a moderate positive correlation was found between avoidance of intimacy and the avoidance subdimension, while a moderate negative correlation emerged with assertiveness. Although no significant relationship was observed between mind reading and avoidance, a low-level positive association was found with assertiveness. These results highlight the interrelation among self-efficacy in romantic contexts, self-determination tendencies, and cognitive distortions. The findings offer valuable insights for psychological counseling practices aimed at enhancing relational functionality among university students.