Identifying Psychological Factors Underlying Perceived Relational Justice in Intimate Partnerships

Abstract

This study aimed to explore and identify the psychological factors that shape individuals' perceptions of relational justice within intimate partnerships. Employing a qualitative research design, this study utilized semi-structured in-depth interviews with 26 participants (13 men and 13 women) currently in committed romantic relationships across urban and semi-urban areas of Mexico. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to ensure diversity in gender, age, and relationship duration. Interviews continued until theoretical saturation was reached. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis in NVivo software (version 14), following Braun and Clarke’s six-step framework. Trustworthiness was ensured through member checking, peer debriefing, and maintaining an audit trail. Three core themes emerged from the data: (1) Emotional Validation and Recognition, including subthemes such as emotional reciprocity, empathic listening, emotional neglect, and gendered expectations around emotional expression; (2) Perceived Equity in Decision-Making, with subthemes including inclusion in decisions, autonomy, conflict negotiation, and implicit expectations; and (3) Moral Accountability and Integrity, encompassing dimensions such as honesty, commitment, fair role distribution, and trustworthiness. Participants framed relational justice as a deeply emotional and moral construct shaped by communication quality, mutual respect, and internalized fairness schemas. Emotional safety, consistency, and fairness in daily interactions were central to the perception of a just relationship. Perceived relational justice in intimate partnerships is rooted in emotional, cognitive, and moral dimensions, extending beyond traditional measures of equality. Understanding the psychological underpinnings of relational justice can inform therapeutic interventions, relational education, and social policy aimed at fostering healthier, more equitable romantic relationships.