How Romantic Relationships Shape Self-Worth: A Qualitative Exploration of Relationship Contingent Self-Esteem in Early Adulthood

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47679/jopp.7311242025

Keywords:

Relationship Contingent Self-Esteem, Early Adulthood, Romantic Relationships

Abstract

Romantic relationships in early adulthood have been shown to have a significant impact on an individual's sense of self-worth, particularly when self-esteem becomes dependent on relational dynamics. This study explores the manifestation and impact of Relationship Contingent Self-Esteem (RCSE) on psychological well-being among young adults in Padang, Indonesia. A qualitative survey approach was utilized to collect data from 200 participants (75 males and 125 females) through open-ended questionnaires designed to capture personal experiences and perceptions related to self-worth in romantic contexts. Thematic analysis was conducted using MAXQDA software in three stages: open coding to identify key concepts, axial coding to uncover patterns, and selective coding to synthesize overarching themes. The findings of the present study indicate that external validation from romantic partners plays a pivotal role in shaping self-evaluation and emotional states. Dependence on partner approval has been demonstrated to correspond with fluctuations in self-esteem, which in turn has been demonstrated to impact overall psychological well-being. The findings underscore the importance of addressing emotional vulnerabilities in romantic relationships. The necessity for targeted interventions, such as psychoeducational programs and emotional regulation training, is also suggested. The purpose of these interventions is to foster emotional resilience and promote healthy relational development during early adulthood.

Author Biographies

Aufizzahra As Syafiyah, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Health, Universitas Negeri Padang

Aufizzahra As Syafiyah completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at Universitas Negeri Padang. She is currently enrolled in the Master's program in the same field at this institution. During her academic pursuits, she cultivated a profound interest in clinical psychology and developmental psychology. She has participated in various research projects and is eager to expand her knowledge and experience in these fields. Aufizzahra's research is focused on the nexus of psychological development and mental health across diverse life stages.

Niken Hartati, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Health, Universitas Negeri Padang

Niken Hartati completed her doctoral program in the field of psychology at Gadjah Mada University (UGM). Presently, she serves as a faculty member in the undergraduate and graduate programs at the University of Padang (UNP). The author's research encompasses the fields of family psychology, developmental psychology, and indigenous psychology. It is imperative to underscore the profound dedication to the advancement of knowledge in these disciplines, in addition to the guidance of prospective psychologists.

Rida Yanna Primanita, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Health, Universitas Negeri Padang

Rida Yanna Primanita has obtained a Master of Science in Professional Psychology (M.Psi., Psikolog) from the University of Islam Bandung (UNISBA). The author's expertise encompasses the following areas of specialization: clinical psychology, addiction psychology, sexual psychology, and health psychology. Presently, she occupies a faculty position at the University of Padang (UNP), where she instructs undergraduate students. Her research, as a scholar and practitioner, is centered on the implementation of psychological principles to assess mental well-being and overall quality of life.

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Published

2025-07-23

How to Cite

Syafiyah, A. A., Hartati, N., & Primanita, R. Y. (2025). How Romantic Relationships Shape Self-Worth: A Qualitative Exploration of Relationship Contingent Self-Esteem in Early Adulthood. Journal of Psychological Perspective, 7(3), 169–182. https://doi.org/10.47679/jopp.7311242025

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Vol. 7 No. 3 (2025)

Section

Empirical Research

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