An Examination of Mental Processes Leading to Emotional Misinterpretations in Couples
Keywords:
emotional misinterpretation, cognitive processing, emotion regulation, emotional co-regulation, couple communicationAbstract
This study aimed to systematically explain the cognitive, emotional, and relational mechanisms underlying the formation and persistence of emotional misinterpretations in couples. This qualitative review study employed a theoretical analysis approach through a systematic literature review. Using purposive theoretical sampling, 15 relevant scholarly articles were selected from major international databases and analyzed until theoretical saturation was achieved. Textual data were coded and analyzed using thematic analysis in NVivo (version 14) following open, axial, and selective coding procedures to construct the final conceptual model. Three major themes were identified: cognitive distortions in emotional processing, impairments in emotional regulation and co-regulation, and the breakdown of emotional communication and relational meaning-making. The interaction of these factors contributes to misinterpretation of emotional messages, persistent conflict, reduced emotional security, and erosion of couples’ emotional capital. Emotional misinterpretations represent a multi-level and systemic phenomenon that, without targeted intervention, perpetuates chronic conflict and marital dissatisfaction; therefore, integrated couple-therapy interventions focusing on cognitive restructuring, emotional regulation, and emotional communication are essential.
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