The Mediating Role of Emotional Loneliness in Relationship between Stonewalling and Sexual Disengagement
Keywords:
Stonewalling, Emotional Loneliness, Sexual DisengagementAbstract
This study aimed to investigate the mediating role of emotional loneliness in the relationship between stonewalling and sexual disengagement in romantic relationships. A descriptive correlational research design was used with a sample of 415 adult participants from Mexico, selected based on the Morgan and Krejcie table. Standardized instruments were employed to assess stonewalling, emotional loneliness, and sexual disengagement. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 for descriptive and Pearson correlation analyses, and AMOS version 24 for structural equation modeling (SEM). Model fit was evaluated using common goodness-of-fit indices, and direct, indirect, and total effects were calculated to assess mediation. Pearson correlation coefficients indicated significant positive relationships between stonewalling and emotional loneliness (r = .51, p < .001), stonewalling and sexual disengagement (r = .43, p < .001), and emotional loneliness and sexual disengagement (r = .56, p < .001). The structural model demonstrated good fit indices (χ²/df = 1.96, CFI = 0.96, RMSEA = 0.047). Stonewalling significantly predicted emotional loneliness (β = 0.51, p < .001) and sexual disengagement (β = 0.23, p < .01). Emotional loneliness significantly predicted sexual disengagement (β = 0.56, p < .001), and the indirect effect of stonewalling on sexual disengagement through emotional loneliness was also significant (β = 0.28, p < .001), confirming partial mediation. The results suggest that emotional loneliness serves as a critical mediating factor in the association between stonewalling and sexual disengagement. These findings underscore the importance of addressing emotional disconnection in therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing intimacy and relational satisfaction in couples.
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