Couple resilience assessment and related constructs: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE

Resilience in romantic relationships remains an underexplored construct. This systematic review examined couple resilience (CR), exploring its conceptualization, operationalization, measurement, and related constructs.

METHOD: A comprehensive search across five databases (PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and PubPsych) was conducted without date restrictions. Empirical studies published in English or Spanish that addressed resilience in romantic relationships were included. The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The Resilience Portfolio Model guided the organization and interpretation of identified strengths using inductive thematic analysis. Study quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

RESULTS

Thirty-one studies met inclusion criteria. Seventy-three related constructs were identified, most frequently cohesion (we-ness), dyadic coping, communication, mutual collaboration, meaning making, social and partner support, mutual interdependence, intimacy, common time, closeness, and trust. These constructs were organized into strengths and indicators of adjustment or maladjustment, at both individual and dyadic levels. Overall, strengths were linked to adaptive outcomes, including greater well-being and relationship satisfaction and lower distress. Interpersonal strengths showed the most consistent links with dyadic outcomes, whereas regulatory strengths were more often associated with individual psychological adjustment. Evidence for meaning making and environmental strengths was limited. Notably, a predominant reliance on individual-resilience and individual-level assessments of CR was observed, underscoring the need for more relationally grounded approaches. A significant research gap concerning CR and intimate partner violence was identified.

CONCLUSIONS

This review highlights the need for greater conceptual clarity and consistent measurement in CR research. Identifying key strengths offers implications for research and interventions aimed at fostering CR following adversity. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).