Myths of Romantic Love and Relationship Satisfaction in Argentine Women Mitos del Amor Romántico y Satisfacción en la pareja en Mujeres Argentinas

Abstract

The objective of this study is to describe the relationship between romantic love myths and relationship satisfaction in women over 18 years of age from the Partido de la Costa, Argentina. Romantic love myths can be problematic in relationships, as they foster unrealistic expectations about relationships and hinder the development of healthy relationships. These beliefs are based on gender inequalities and stereotypes, thus configuring romantic love as one of the main ways in which patriarchal structures in gender relations are perpetuated, constituting a form of subjugation of women. The sample consisted of 183 women who reported being in a relationship and responded to the Romantic Love Myths Scale (RMLS) and the Relationship Satisfaction Scale (ESP-10). The results indicate a tendency toward rejection of most of the love beliefs. However, a correlation is observed between the Myth of Omnipotence and relationship satisfaction, as well as a greater presence of myths according to age. It is concluded that while the aforementioned trend could reflect a period of transition and a progressive abandonment of the idealization of romantic love, these beliefs are still present and contribute to the establishment of relationships built on inequalities and gender stereotypes, perpetuating traditional affective models.