Dynamic and functional characteristics of the couple costitutive stage

The research presented aims to analyze the characteristics of the couple relationship considered in its constitutive phase, both as regards the quality of her functioning, and as regards some representational and attributive aspects at the base of the establishment of the couple relationship itself. The objectives concern, in particular, the exploration of the latent and structural forms of the couple bond and the evaluation of the interrelations between the forms of the couple bond and some dimensions of dyadic psychic functioning that appear relevant for relational functioning. For this purpose, 66 couples residing throughout Italy have been recruited. Each of them was given a multimethodological protocol which includes a joint clinical interview and some individual self-report questionnaires. The data thus produced were examined through univariate and bivariate analyzes and, subsequently, considered jointly through a cluster analysis that allowed to identify three types of relationship profiles. The results obtained outline an articulated panorama and some differentiated positions, that is, forms of the relationship where the balance between aspects of force and problematic or uncertain aspects determines distinct prevalence. Three different clusters have been identified, distinguished by the relevance of properly relational variables with respect to personal variables. This would confirm the theoretical assumption promoted by the relational and systemic perspectives that consider the proprium of the couple relationship, independently of the construct considered, a surplus and a substantial specific otherness with respect to the personal contributions of the partners.