1874-3501/22 Send Orders for Reprints to reprints@benthamscience.

net

The Open Psychology Journal

Content list available at: https://openpsychologyjournal.com

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Effects of Personal Relationships on Physical and Mental Health among Young

Adults- A Scoping Review
Prakash Navaneetham1 and Barani Kanth1,*
1
Department of Applied Psychology, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry 605014, India

Abstract:
Introduction:
This scoping review explores the association between young adults’ personal relationships and their physical and mental health. We reviewed
studies that examined the nature and the quality of interaction in personal relationships and its effect on physical and mental health among young
adults. We excluded studies conducted on the population with psychiatric conditions or who are differently abled.

Methods:
We used the following network databases to find relevant research: Google Scholar, SCOPUS, Web of Science, EBSCO, PubMed, ERIC, Science
Direct and JSTOR from August 2021 to December 2021. We obtained 64 studies following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews
and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping review (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines.

Results and Discussion:

Thematic analysis of the selected studies indicates that personal relationships have the potency to either foster or hinder young adults’ physical and
psychological functioning and well-being. Quality of relationships with family members such as parents, siblings, and extended family members
are significantly associated with mental health and well-being Furthermore, studies showed that romantic relationship status and psychosocial
characteristics within relationship contexts affect the mental health of young adults. In addition, our review showed that support from friendships,
friendship features, and quality could support young adults’ self-esteem, mental health, and well-being. Although we find mixed results on
personal relationships’ effect on physical health, few studies show that personal relationships affect cortisol levels, multiple areas of biological
regulation, and women’s level of dysmenorrhea among young adults. The results justify the need to apply preventive intervention in the
community to eliminate risk factors and enhance protective factors by imparting empirically validated knowledge, attitudes, and skills for
relationships among young people. Investments in community-wide preventive interventions, interpersonal skill development agendas in
counseling and psychotherapies, are recommended.

Conclusion:
The present review highlighted the underlying cultural influences on relationships and the necessity to promote relationship research in non-
western cultures, given the underrepresentation of non-western cultures in research., we have highlighted the underlying cultural influences on
relationships and the necessity to promote relationship research in non-western cultures, given the underrepresentation of non-western cultures in
research.

Keywords: Culture, Mental health, Personal relationships, Physical health, Young adults, Adulthood.

Article History Received: March 28, 2022 Revised: May 25, 2022 Accepted: June 21, 2022

1. INTRODUCTION 18-29 years [1]. The transition period from adolescents to

adulthood happens when specific developmental changes
Over the last few decades, reconsideration of the
occur, and relationship-building tasks become especially
adolescent-to-adult transition has given rise to a new important. Although growth between the ages of 18 and 29
conceptualization of the life stage known as emerging parallels preceding or succeeding periods, emerging adults,
adulthood or young adulthood, which spans approximately unlike teenagers, are neither school-going children nor minors
* under the law. They have attained physical and sexual maturity
Address correspondence to this author at the Department of Applied
Psychology, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry- 605014, India; and are ready to start educational or occupational attainments
Tel: 91 413 2654687; E-mail: baranikanth77@gmail.com [1]. In these late teens to mid-twenties journeys, young people

DOI: 10.2174/18743501-v15-e2208180, 2022, 15, e187435012208180

2 The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 Navaneetham and Kanth

often invest in higher education, begin working, form new friendly-non-assertive interpersonal style. Specific
relationships, and engage in other activities that prepare them interpersonal problems are also associated with treatment
for a healthy adult life [2]. At the same time, the young outcomes [19].
adulthood period shows heightened vulnerability to Similarly, Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), developed
psychological issues, and many psychological disorders mark by Klerman et al., focuses on improving a client's interpersonal
its onset [3]. relationships and social functioning to reduce distress [20]. IPT
According to Ryff & Singer, “interpersonal flourishing is a offers solutions to problems in four key areas: interpersonal
core feature of quality living” (p. 30) [4]. Young adults’ ability deficits, or involvement in unfulfilling relationships;
to have good social relationships is essential for their health, unresolved grief; difficult life transitions, such as retirement,
like success in education and employment [5]. Of all the divorce, or relocating; and interpersonal disputes, which arise
factors that influence the psychological functioning of young from conflicting expectations between partners, family
adults, the quality of relationships and interaction they have members, close friends, or co-workers. IPT focuses on
with their family members, peers and partners are considered changing relationship patterns rather than the accompanying
vital [6 - 8]. At the same time, many of the anger or stress- depressive symptoms and addressing relationship issues that
inducing factors arise in social contexts, as in troubled or worsen these symptoms.
dysfunctional interpersonal relationships [9, 10]. Kern et al.’s Attachment theory posits interdependent relations are both
study of Seligman’s PERMA model stated that positive constructive and essential for human survival [21, 22].
relationships are determinants of psychological well-being
Although Bowlby’s attachment theory describes infants’
[11]. Results indicated that life satisfaction, gaining meaning,
attachment formation with the primary caregivers, these
hope, and gratitude were significantly correlated with positive
relationship perceptions—feeling connected to, supporting
intimate interactions significantly contribute to an individual’s
others, and being supported by others. Loss of interpersonal sense of security. Attachment security remains a powerful
relationships or failure to establish close and supportive factor in adulthood too. It also forms the basis for the
relationships contributes to clinical symptoms [7], like development of adult ‘internal working models’, which aid
depression is both an outcome and precipitant of disruptions or relational expectations, perceptions, and behaviors [23]. Adult
loss of social relations. Many researchers have proposed that attachment anxiety and avoidance are linked to interpersonal
chronic relationship stress compromise mental and physical functioning as well as one’s health. Attachment insecurity is
health [12 - 14]. linked to one’s stress responses too—as it guides the appraising
of stressful life events and, therefore, the physiological
1.1. Defining Personal Relationships response to stress and recovery [24]. This, in turn, can cause
Interpersonal relationships refer to interaction among depressive symptoms [23]. Anchoring on attachment theories,
people in various contexts, including family or kinship Feeney and Collins stated that well-functioning close
relations, friendships, marriage, academic or workplace relationships with family, friends and intimate partners are vital
relations, neighborhoods, etc. It could be categorized into two to thriving for humans, as they fulfill support functions [25].
major contexts: social and personal relationships. Social
Kiesler (1996) defined a transactional interpersonal model
relationships involve a formal or informal relationship with
positing that individuals frame their interpersonal world and
neighbors, co-workers, customers, community members, and
acquaintances. On the other hand, personal relationships interactions [26]. Keisler’s interpersonal circumplex model
mandate more intimacy, closeness, and interdependence than presents interpersonal behaviors related to the agency
social relationships [15]. According to VanLear et al., (dominance- submissiveness) and affiliative interpersonal
relationships like couple relationships, (best)friends, and behaviors (friendliness-disengagement). It was found that
adoptive/foster families are voluntary personal relations, depressed individuals exhibit interpersonal behaviors in a
whereas parent-child, siblings, and grandparents are disengaged manner and lack self-esteem and interpersonal
exogenously established personal relations [16]. Similarly, agency [23]. Psychopathology and distress are the results of
acquaintances and casual friends are voluntary social relations, delimited, repetitive, maladaptive transactional cycles that were
and distant relatives and workplace relationships are established to protect the sense of self but invariably led to
exogenously established social relations. In this scoping self-defeating, restricting patterns of relatedness [26].
review, we considered young adults’ personal relationships
within the context of family, peer and romantic relationships. Bowen’s family systems theory considers the family as an
emotional system. He stated that the driving forces underlying
1.2. Theoretical Perspectives on Personal Relationships all human behavior are created due to the striving of family
members for balance between togetherness and distance [27].
Sullivan’s interpersonal theory stressed the role of
The primary aim of Bowenian therapy is to reduce emotional
interpersonal relationships in developing personality and
crisis or anxiety generated within the family system by
psychopathology. Sullivan described personality as “a
relatively enduring pattern of recurrent interpersonal situations facilitating awareness about emotional system functions and
which characterize a human life” [17]. Sullivan observed that differentiation among family members [28]. Eight interlocking
unstable interpersonal interactions could lead to the principles in Bowen’s theory explain the differentiation of self,
development of psychiatric disorders. For example, triangulation, nuclear family emotional system, family
interpersonal problems be a significant factor in the onset and projection process, emotional cut-off, multigenerational
maintenance of eating disorders [18, 19]. Unq and colleagues transmission process, sibling position and societal regression
argued that people with eating disorders generally had a [27, 28].
Effects of Personal Relationships on Physical The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 3

1.3. Importance of Personal Relations and protective factors within personal relationships that
influence young adults' physical and mental health and well-
Research findings emphasize that relationships are
being. The review's precise questions were: What factors in
important to people, and domains like family, friendships, and
personal relationships can harm or help young adults' health
romantic relationships are considered significant-close
and well-being, and how does it impact?
relationships in one’s life [29]. Successful relationships with
family, friends, colleagues, and peers are essential to 2. METHODS
maintaining one’s well-being [30] and physical and mental
health [14]. Harmonious relationships are positively related to A scoping review of the literature was used in this
one’s psychological well-being [31]. However, rejections and research. The scoping review provides a comprehensive picture
negative interactions lead to poorer well-being. For example, of the field that can be utilized to (a) disclose the key concepts
Ford and Collins reported that rejection had a lasting impact on that underpin the study field, (b) clarify the working definition,
well-being among young adults [32]. These authors found a and (c) define the conceptual border of a topic [37]. Given that
significant increase in perceived stress and depressed mood as the study matched all three criteria, a scoping review was
deemed the best strategy for achieving the research objectives.
well as significant impairments in self-regulatory capacity on
We followed The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic
days the participants felt rejected. Besides, it was found that
reviews and Meta-Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews
rejection’s effects on sad mood and self-regulatory ability
(PRISMA-ScR) guidelines [38, 39].
lasted until the next day.
In a study exploring the most important contributor to the 2.1. Search Strategy
meaning of life among young adults, Lambert et al. found that The following databases were combed: Google Scholar,
sixty-eight percent of the young adults reported that their SCOPUS, Web of Science, Taylor and Francis Online,
families in general or a specific family member (e.g., sister,
EBSCO, PubMed, ERIC, ScienceDirect and JSTOR. Online.
parent) were the essential contributors to the meaning of life
Searches were performed using the following keywords: young
[33] followed by friends. Chow and Ruhl examined everyday
adults/ youth, college students, interpersonal relationships/
stressors among young adults [34]. They found that 46–82
personal relationships/ social relationships, close relationships,
percent of everyday stressors for emerging adults are related to
family, sibling relationships, extended family, romantic
interpersonal interactions, particularly conflicts with friends
relationships, peers, friendships, mental health, physical health,
and romantic partners. Siu & Shek also identified the stressful
health, well-being, life satisfaction and happiness. The Boolean
social situations for Chinese young adults [30]. These authors
operators “and” and/or “or” were used to combine the terms in
reported that it was easier for young adults to develop and
the search. To find more relevant articles, we looked at “related
maintain a friendship, and perceived self-efficacy was greater
articles”, “related research”, “cited by,” and
in dealing with peers. However, young adults were least
“Recommendations” under the search results. References of
confident in handling conflicts with family members,
obtained articles were checked, and articles that were found
colleagues and supervisors, and expressing love to the one
relevant were hand searched. The two independent reviewers
admiring. The other situations with relatively lower self-
searched for the studies from August 2021 to December 2021.
efficacy were balancing time for friends, family, partners,
A third reviewer evaluated the selected studies. The reviewers
study, work, and showing care to family members.
discussed and finalized the inclusion or exclusion of the
Darling et al. examined stress in college students’ studies.
relationships—friendships, romantic relationships, and family
relationships [35]. Significant themes emerged in their research 2.1.1. Inclusion Criteria
in friendship and love domains are: leaving friends, living with
We used the following criteria for the selection of the
friends, reconsidering friendship relationships, managing
articles:
unhealthy love relationships, ending relationships, or missing a
relationship. Themes on parent relationships included (1) Written in English.
independence from parents, managing parental plans and (2) Published article or unpublished dissertation.
prospects, parental marital issues, family communication,
health, and relationships. Though inadequate, this limited (3) Published between 1990 to 2022.
research indicates that young people face difficulties (4) Samples were either exclusively young adults/ have
maintaining healthy personal relationships. In the current included the young adulthood phase.
scoping review, we present and synthesize research findings on
various personal relationship networks [36] of young adults, (5) Samples should be healthy young adults.
i.e., family— parents, siblings and extended family— romantic (6 Studies linking personal relationships with health, well-
partners, and peers and discuss how it poses important being, life satisfaction and happiness.
implications for young adults’ mental & physical health and
well-being. 2.1.2. Exclusion Criteria

1.4. Goal of the Review

Studies with samples having psychiatric conditions and
By scouring the literature, we aimed to understand the risk disadvantaged populations (e.g., Handicapped, having
4 The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 Navaneetham and Kanth

any significant physical health conditions like arthritis, 2.2. Data Analysis
cancer, parents having a mental illness, etc.) were not
We used thematic analysis to synthesize and organize the
considered as those factors may act as covariates.
findings of the selected studies. We carefully read,
We adopted the following six quality criteria from scoping summarized, and synthesized the available information into
review articles recently published by Rubega et al. [40] and different categories/themes. We categorized the entire review
Bertuccelli et al. [41]: into different sections — considering family relationships,
romantic relationships, and peer relationships as major personal
networks [36] of young adults.
[1] Study objectives are clearly stated
[2] Description of inclusion and/or exclusion criteria 3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
[3] Data collection and processing are clearly described
and are reliable (whenever applicable) Based on the keywords used for the search and the
[4] Outcomes are topic relevant inclusion and exclusion criteria prescribed for the review, we
[5] Appropriate statistical analysis techniques identified 64 studies linking personal relationships to physical
[6] Presentation of the result is sufficient and mental health. Of them, 54 studies examined the
association between personal relationships and mental health,
We found 64 articles that fulfilled the above criteria and and ten studi es explored the association between personal
were included in this review. The geographical distribution of relationships and physical health. We conducted a thematic
these studies is presented in Table 1. Fig. (1) presents a analysis of the 54 studies examining the link between personal
PRISMA flow chart for the selection of articles. relationships and mental health and explored the themes and
sub-themes based on the nature and type of the relationship
Table 1. Geographical distribution of studies
examined. We found that the studies could be grouped under
three major contexts of relationship— relationships within the
Location of studies Frequency
family, romantic and sexual partners and peers. We also found
USA 48 sub-themes under these major contexts. The major themes and
Canada 4 sub-themes are presented Figs. (2, 3, and 4) for family,
Italy 2 romantic and sexual partner, and peer relationships,
Netherlands 2 respectively. We did not conduct any thematic analysis for
UK, Australia, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Poland, China, 8 studies linking personal relationships and physical health, as
and Taiwan. there were only ten studies.

Total number of
papers downloaded=
293
Excluded due to bibliographic
information.
n=12 E.g.: Study is too old, not in
English language.

Remained 281

Duplicates were removed.

n=40

Remained 241

Excluded based on reading

abstracts and found not
n=83 relevant for the review.

Remained 158
Excluded based on reading
full text and found not
relevant for the review.
n=94 Most reasons were different
focus of the study,
Included studies- 64 population other than young
adults, young adults with
psychiatric conditions,
handicapped, other serious
physical illnesses, parents
with mental illness etc.

Fig. (1). Flowchart depicting the exclusion process from unsorted results to selected studies.
Effects of Personal Relationships on Physical The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 5

Family
• Parents
• Siblings
• Extended family

Negative relationship Positive relationship

• Conflict/strained • Closeness
relationship • Social support
• Lower social support • Secure attachment
• Lower cohesion • Positive parenting
• Lower closeness • Family cohesion
Interpersonal
abilities

Relationship quality↑
Internalizing symptoms↑
Self-esteem↓
Psychological distress↑ • Meaning of life↑
Psychological • Happiness↑
adjustment↓ • Well-being↑
Well-being ↓ • Life satisfaction↑
Life satisfaction↓ • Clinical
Drug use↑ symptomatology↓

Fig. (2). Conceptual diagram of how the family relationship affects young adults’ mental health and well-being. Upwards arrow (↑) indicates an
increase in the respective variables. The downward arrow (↓) indicates a decrease in the respective variables.

3.1. Family Relationships among Young Adults predictor of meaning in life, even when personal variables self-
esteem, autonomy, competence, and closeness to friends
Family relationships play a critical part in determining an influencing the meaning of life were controlled [33].
individual’s well-being, for better or worse, throughout their Correspondingly, youth who established positive relationships
lives [42]. Lambert et al. [33] findings point out that family with their family have improved well-being than those who do
relationships are prominent and pervasive in providing not [43]. Table 2 presents an overview of the nature and details
meaning to young adults. Closeness to the family is a strong of the studies on family relationships.

Table 2. Overview of the reviewed sources in family relationships

Title & Year Country Research Design Sample Outcome Measures

Relations of Internalizing Symptoms to Conflict USA Quantitative, Cross- 123 college students • Interpersonal conflict
and Interpersonal Problem-Solving in Close sectional in close relationships
Relationships [8] (2005) • Interpersonal problem
solving
• Depressive symptoms
• Anxiety symptoms.
Family as a salient source of meaning in young USA Quantitative, cross- Undergraduate students Meaning in life.
adulthood [33] (2010) sectional
6 The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 Navaneetham and Kanth

(Table 2) contd.....
Title & Year Country Research Design Sample Outcome Measures
“Family Comes First!” “Relationships with family Italy Mixed method. Study 1: 39 emerging adults Study1: emerging adults'
and friends in Italian emerging adults.” Study1: Qualitative Study 2: 474 participants perception of interactions
[44] (2014) study use focus group or with both family and
interview. friends.
Study 2: Quantitative, Study2: how family and
self-report questionnaire. friends' importance to
identity linked to life
satisfaction
Extended Family Relationships: How They USA Quantitative, cross- 304 undergraduate students • Quality and quantity
Impact the Mental Health of Young Adults [45] sectional, of extended family
(2017) relationship
• Perceived social
support – family of origin
• Perceived social
support – extended family
• Self-esteem
• Depressive symptoms
Close Relationships and Happiness Among USA Quantitative 314 young adults • Relationship Quality
Emerging Adults [6] (2010) Cross-sectional and Conflict
• Happiness
•
The roles of parental attachment and sibling Italy Quantitative 253 emerging adults aged 20–31 • Quality of parental
relationships on life satisfaction in emerging Cross-sectional attachment
adults [46] (2019) • Quality of sibling
relationships
• Level of life
satisfaction
Positive Parenting Improves Multiple Aspects of USA Longitudinal cohort, N= 15000+, Baseline age, in • Offspring satisfaction
Health and Well-Being in Young Adulthood quantitative. years (range: 12-22 with the parent-child
(2019) [47] relationship
• Parenting styles
• Family dinner
frequency.
• Psychological well-
being
• Physical health
• Mental health
• Health behavioral
outcomes
The Role of Parents in Emerging Adults’ Spain Quantitative 1502 undergraduate students • Parenting dimensions
Psychological Well-Being: A Person-Oriented Cross-sectional • Family control
Approach [43] (2019) • Psychological well-
being
• Psychological distress
Loneliness in young adulthood: Its intersecting Taiwan Cross-sectional, Two thousand seven hundred • Loneliness
forms and its association with psychological well- quantitative forty-eight young people, a • Psychological well-
being and family characteristics in Northern cohort sample from the Taiwan being
Taiwan. [48] (2019) Youth Project (TYP). • Family characteristics
Depression and perception of family cohesion USA Quantitative cross- Three hundred seventy-two • Familial cohesion
levels and social support from friends in emerging sectional. emerging adult individuals who • Social support from
adulthood at a university mental health clinic [49] were availing of individual or friends
(2020) family therapy services from the • Depressive symptoms
couples and family therapy
training clinic housed within the
department of family science at
the university of Maryland.
The association between current maternal USA Quantitative, cross- N = 125 • Maternal
psychological control, anxiety symptoms, and sectional Emerging adults, undergraduate psychological control
emotional regulatory processes in emerging adults students from the state university • Anxiety symptoms
[50] (2020) in southern California. • Emotion regulation
• Social Stress
Sibling relationships and best friendships in USA Quantitative, cross- 102 undergraduates • Self-esteem
young adulthood: Warmth, conflict, and well- sectional • Loneliness
being (2006) [31] • Relationship quality
Effects of Personal Relationships on Physical The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 7

(Table 2) contd.....
Title & Year Country Research Design Sample Outcome Measures
Family Structure and Psychological Health in UK Quantitative, cross- 708 undergraduate students aged • The Locus of Control
Young Adults [51] sectional. between 18 - 21 years of Behaviour
• dispositional optimism
• factors of family
environment
• psychological distress
Extended Family Relationships: How They USA Quantitative, cross- 304 undergraduate students • Quality and quantity
Impact the Mental Health of Young Adults [45] sectional (between 18 and 21 years of age) of extended family
(2017) relationships
• Perceived social
support – family of origin
• Perceived social
support – extended family
• Self-esteem
• Depressive symptoms

3.1.1. Relationship with Parents Therefore, when parents exert greater parental authority, too
much emotional support and psychological control might
The transition to the young adulthood stage brings positive
hinder young adults’ developmental needs and adversely affect
and negative changes within child-parent relationships.
their mental health and development. Changing the parent-
Undesirable happenings like regular family conflict might
child dynamics and redefining the relationship dynamics
disrupt emerging adults’ maturation, autonomy, and emotional
between parents and young adult children would make positive
and social health [52]. Demir examined the role of
changes. Relinquishing over-control, encouraging
relationships between father and mother and the association responsibility and redefining relationships as adult-adult would
with happiness [6]. Mother-child relationship quality emerged be favorable [55].
as a substantial predictor of happiness than father-child
relationship quality, irrespective of young adult's relationship García-Mendoza et al. reported that participants with better
status —single or committed. Ponti & Smorti found that family relationships —high levels of parental involvement,
relationships with the mother and father were, directly and parental support for autonomy, parental warmth, and low levels
indirectly, related to life satisfaction and well-being [46]. The of behavioral and psychological control— were shown to be
path analysis showed that the level of secure attachment to both more psychologically adjusted [43]. In addition, they found
parents was closely and favorably connected with perceptions that when parental support is too low, young adults achieving
of emerging adults’ overall life satisfaction. However, emotional autonomy lead to psychological distress and lowered
attachment to the mother is a somewhat higher predictor than well-being [56]. Positive relationships with father and mother
the father. As in Demir’s [6] study, Londahl et al.’s [8] study
were linked to fewer depression symptoms across different age
groups [57]. Roc reported that perception of family cohesion is
also stressed the importance of young adults’ relationships with
negatively correlated with their depressive symptom levels
their mothers. Conflict with the mother was correlated with
[49]. Relationships with parents are strongly linked to
depressive symptoms [8]. Miller and Lane [53] found that
emerging adults’ well-being and distress [43].
college students were closer to their mothers than their fathers
in terms of spending more time, getting more egalitarian Perceived social support from the family of origin is also a
treatment, closeness, and positive experiences which partially significant contributor to depressive symptoms and self-esteem
explains that young adults display more distress when levels for men and women [45]. Wagner et al.’s review of
experiencing conflicts with their mother than father [6, 8]. family characteristics that lead to youth suicidal behaviors
Chen et al.'s study on positive parenting and young adults’ reported—suicidal behaviors, both fatal and nonfatal, have
well-being reported that relationship satisfaction was linked to been consistently connected to strained parent-child
improved emotional well-being, a lower risk of mental illness, interactions like high conflict and low closeness [58]. Insecure
eating disorders, being overweight/obese, and use of marijuana parent-child relationships and family system issues such as
[47]. Perceived parental control is positively associated with cohesion and adaptability are consistently linked to nonfatal
anxiety [50]. Young adults who are more psychologically and suicidal symptoms than complete suicides [58]. However, low
behaviorally regulated by their parents experience greater parent-child affection has fewer negative psychological
psychological distress and lesser psychological well-being. consequences for young adults when they are into some
Greater parental authoritativeness and regular family dinners employment and marital and parental identities to a lesser
were linked to higher emotional well-being, less depressive extent [59]. Together these studies show that relationship
symptoms, reduced risk of overeating, and certain sexual quality and conflicts with parents impact young adults’
behaviors among young adults [47]. Late adolescence and
happiness, mental health, and well-being and have highlighted
young adulthood is a period where they start being more
the importance of young adults having close, affectionate
autonomous. Individuating from parents and gaining
autonomy, and being able to make responsible decisions for relationships with their parents. We also infer that healthy
oneself are significant developmental needs during late parental involvement and support and experience of cohesion
adolescence [54]. Many theorists define the process of and feelings of closeness with parents facilitate mental health.
individuating and gaining autonomy as a task that must be On the other hand, over-involvement and control displayed by
accomplished to progress from adolescence to adulthood [55]. parents affect the mental health of young adults adversely.
8 The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 Navaneetham and Kanth

3.1.2. Relationship with Siblings experience negative mental health implications depending on
the quality of interactions [60]. A conceptual diagram
Studies on sibling relationships are relatively sparse
indicating family relationship factors affecting young adults’
compared to other family relationships, although it is often a
mental health is presented in Fig. (2).
lasting family relationship across all cultural contexts. High-
quality sibling relationships characterized by positive features Overall, studies examining the association between family
like closeness have been found to be linked to well-being. At relationships and mental health outcomes among young adults
the same time, sibling relationships characterized by conflicts indicate that individuals experience both positive and negative
were linked to poorer well-being, increased chances of mental health outcomes within one’s own family relationships.
depression, and drug use in adulthood [42]. Positive sibling Closeness among family members, social support, secure
relationships, defined by warmth, affection, and emotional and attachment, positive parenting from parents, and good family
instrumental support, are associated with an individual’s well- cohesion was found to be positive factors that enhance mental
being. On the other hand, conflicted sibling relationships are health. Feeney and Collins argued that social support acts as a
associated with unfavorable psychological adjustment, such as buffer during stress and is an interpersonal process that
internalizing and externalizing behaviors [46]. Sherman et al. promotes positive well-being. As portrayed in Fig. (2), social
reported similar findings that young adults with harmonious support is a positive relationship feature, increasing young
sibling relations—high warmth, low conflict— had higher adults’ relationship quality with their families. This, in turn,
well-being, and those with affect-intense —high warmth, high acts as a promoter of well-being and mental health and lowers
conflict— sibling relationships had low well-being [31]. On the the clinical symptomatology. Similarly, secure parental
other hand, Ponti & Smorti's research did not find any evidence attachment, closeness, and family cohesion also seem
for sibling conflict negatively affecting emerging adults’ life important in maintaining good relationships. Even though
satisfaction [46]. sibling relationships and extended family members also predict
well-being, relationships with parents seem more crucial and
Some gender-specific traits and characteristics in
predictive of mental health and well-being. At the same time,
relationship context might influence relationship dynamics and
conflicts in family relationships, poorer family cohesion, and
satisfaction. Some study results pointed that the gender
social support can contribute to internalizing symptoms,
structure of siblings affects mental health. Cassidy et al.
psychological distress, drug use, reduced self-esteem, life
reported that those having a brother experienced the most
satisfaction, adjustment, and well-being.
psychological distress [51]. The most psychologically
distressed were boys who have brothers; the second most
3.2. Romantic Relationships among Young Adults
distressed were girls with brothers, closely followed by both
boys and girls with both brothers and sisters. The participants Current section deals with young adults’ romantic
who experienced the least psychological distress were the boys relationships and their effects on their mental health and well-
and girls having sisters. Based on the literature, they reasoned being. Getting into romantic relationships and experiencing
that the male siblings caused increased conflict and decreased intimacy are considered critical developmental tasks
cohesion within the sibling relationship. Given that sibling accompanying the transition to adulthood [39]. The social
solidarity is regarded as a significant source of social support convoy model [40] argues that people organize their close
during family conflicts, it stands to reason that female siblings relationships hierarchically, and young adulthood is a key time
may provide greater support than male siblings – resulting in for formal and casual romantic relationships to develop [5], and
possessing male siblings causing increased psychological they may prioritize it more. Romantic experiences starting
distress and female siblings lowering the distress. during adolescence and delayed marriage allow premarital
relationships for young adults [41].
3.1.3. Relationship with Extended Family Members
Adolescents’ relatively short and casual romantic
They are an element of family structure that is often relationship patterns progress to more serious, committed
overlooked as having implications for well-being. Extended relationships in young adulthood [42, 43]. Romantic
family members include other non-parental members, experiences in this period have developmental significance for
including grandparents and other relatives. Evidence shows an well-being — prolonged singles reporting decreased life
association between extended family relationships and mental satisfaction and increased loneliness [44] and romantic
health among young adults. Though perceived social support competence associated with decreased internalizing symptoms
from the family of origin is the strongest predictor of self- like anxiety and depression [45]. Depression trajectories
esteem and depression in young adults, perceived support from associated with adolescent dating gradually fade away when
extended family members is also moderately connected [45]. they enter the young adulthood period; decreased symptom
These results suggest that extended family support works in trajectories were related to young adult unions and the
tandem with assistance from the family of origin to improve combination of adolescent dating with young adult singlehood
self-esteem and depression. Females benefit from positive [46]. Meeus et al. reported that when young adults transition to
extended family relationships positively impacting their mental intimate relationships, they psychologically enter into more
health, whereas males get negatively affected by increased meaningful relationships [47]. When people reach early
closeness of extended family relationships, with depressive adulthood, the psychological significance of their intimate
symptoms elevated by closer extended family relationships partner relationship becomes more apparent— the relationship
[45]. These studies conclude that the connection between quality gets further stable and is linked to their emotional
extended families and youth well-being is not as simple as we adjustment [47]. Table 3 presents an overview of the nature
assume. People may gain from extended family ties or and details of the studies on romantic relationships.
Effects of Personal Relationships on Physical The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 9

Table 3. Overview of the reviewed sources in the domain of romantic relationships

Title & Year Country Research Design Sample Outcome Measures

Predicting dysphoria and relationship adjustment: USA Short-term 145 dating college students Depression
Gender differences in their longitudinal relationship. longitudinal, Relationship satisfaction
Sex Roles(2001) [61] quantitative of couples
Relationships with intimate partner, best friend, and Netherlands six-year longitudinal 1041 adolescents and early Parental support
parents in adolescence and early adulthood: A study study adults, aged 12–23 Relational commitment to
of the saliency of the intimate partnership [62](2007) quantitative best friend and intimate
partner
Emotional problems
Relationship status
Together is better? Effects of relationship status and Netherlands six-year longitudinal N=1775, between 18 and Well-being
resources on young adults’ well-being [63](2008) study 30 years of age Relationship status
quantitative Material resources
Personal resources
Social resources
Perceived social network support and well-being in Canada Quantitative, cross- N=458 young adults Perceived support for the
same-sex versus mixed-sex romantic relationships sectional. relationship
[64](2008) Relationship well-being
Mental health.
Physical health.
Other support
Profiles and Correlates of Relational Aggression in USA Quantitative, cross- 479 young adults Relational Aggression and
Young Adults’ Romantic Relationships. [65](2008) sectional. Relational Victimization
Social-cognitive Factors
Normative Beliefs
Retaliation Beliefs
Relationship
Characteristic Factors
Trait/dispositional Factors
Mental Health Factors
Depressive Symptoms in Young Adults: The Role of USA Quantitative, cross- 110 undergraduate students Attachment orientations
Attachment Orientations and Romantic Relationship sectional. between 18-25 years Conflict behavior
Conflict (2009) [66] Depressive symptoms
Casual Sex and Psychological Health Among Young USA Quantitative, cross- 1,311 young adults Partner type
Adults: Is Having ‘Friends with Benefits’ sectional. Psychological well-being
Emotionally Damaging? Perspectives on Sexual and
Reproductive Health”(2009) [67]
“Romantic relationships and the physical and mental USA Quantitative, cross- 1621 college students Relationship status
health of college students”(2010) [68] sectional. Health problems
Over weight
Risky behavior
Substance use
“Non-marital Romantic Relationships and Mental USA Quantitative, cross- 1611 young adults Depressive symptoms
Health in Early Adulthood: Does the association sectional. Substance abuse
differ for women and men?”(2010) [69] Relationship status
Quality of relationship
“Romantic Relationship Status Changes and USA Longitudinal, a community sample of 939 Substance use
Substance Use Among 18- to 20-Year-Olds”(2010) quantitative. individuals Relationship status
[70] Depressive symptoms
Breaking up is hard to do: The impact of unmarried USA Longitudinal, 18 to 35-year olds (N = Psychological distress
relationship dissolution on mental health and life quantitative 1295) Life satisfaction
satisfaction(2011) [71] Relationship and Break-up
Characteristics
Romantic Relationships, Relationship Styles, Coping Australia, Quantitative, cross- 144 Anglo-Australian and Relationship style
Strategies, and Psychological Distress among China sectional. 250 Hong Kong Chinese Coping strategies
Chinese and Australian Young Adults [72] (2011) undergraduate students Psychological distress
Caught in a bad romance: Perfectionism, conflict, Canada Longitudinal, 226 heterosexual romantic Perfectionistic concerns.
and depression in romantic relationships [73] (2012) quantitative dyads Conflict
Depressive symptoms
Other-oriented
perfectionism
Neuroticism.
10 The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 Navaneetham and Kanth

(Table 3) contd.....
Title & Year Country Research Design Sample Outcome Measures
Attachment Anxiety, Conflict Behaviors, and USA Quantitative, cross- 45 dyadic couples ages attachment anxiety in
Depressive Symptoms in Emerging Adults’ sectional. 18–25 years intimate relationships
Romantic Relationships [74] (2012) Conflict Behaviors
depressive symptoms
Examination of Identity and Romantic Relationship USA Quantitative, cross- 437 emerging adults relationship type
Intimacy Associations with Well-Being in Emerging sectional. Identity Measure
Adulthood Identity [75] (2012) Intimacy Measures
Well-Being
Committed Dating Relationships and Mental Health USA Quantitative, cross- Eight hundred eighty-nine relationship status
Among College Students [76] (2013) sectional. undergraduate students Depressive symptoms
aged 18 to 25. Alcohol use.
Romantic Relationships and Health among African USA Longitudinal, 634 African American Mental health
American Young Adults [77] (2013) quantitative respondents transitioning to Physical health
adulthood Relationship commitment
Relationship satisfaction
Partner warmth
Partner hostility
Partner antisociality
Friendship and Romantic Stressors and Depression USA Quantitative, cross- 164 emerging adults age Friendship and Romantic
in Emerging Adulthood: Mediating and Moderating sectional. ranging from 18 to 21 years Stressors
Roles of Attachment Representations [34] (2014) Attachment
Representations
depressive symptoms
Perceived Social Support and Mental Health Among Poland Quantitative, cross- 553 young adults aged General Health
Single vs. Partnered Polish Young Adults [78] sectional 20–30 Mental Health
(2015) Perceived Social Support
current relationship status
Romantic competence, healthy relationship USA Mixed method of Emerging adults between Romantic competence
functioning, and well-being in emerging adults [79] qualitative and 18 - 25 years. relational and individual
(2017) quantitative, cross- well-being
sectional
Includes multiple
studies.
Binge Drinking and Depression: The Influence of USA Quantitative, 1,111 couples at least 18 Binge Drinking
Romantic Partners in Young Adulthood [80] (2017) longitudinal. years of age Depression
How Much Does Love Really Hurt? A Meta- USA Meta-analysis 20 manuscripts Romantic relationship
Analysis of the Association Between Romantic U.S. and non-U.S. quality Romantic
Relationship Quality, Breakups and Mental Health adolescents (13–17 years Relationship Breakups
Outcomes in Adolescents and Young Adults [81] old) and young adults Mental health outcomes
(2017) (18–29 years old).
Abilities in Romantic Relationships and Well-Being USA Quantitative, cross- 145 emerging-adult Relational anxiety
Among Emerging Adults [82] (2017) sectional undergraduate students e Attachment anxiety and
aged 18 to 25 avoidance
Self-efficacy in romantic
relationships
Well-being
Sexting within young adults’ dating and romantic Review - Sexting research among
relationships [83] (2020) young adults.
Patterns of Romantic Relationship Experiences and Germany Quantitative, N=2457 adolescents and Romantic involvement
Psychosocial Adjustment from Adolescence to longitudinal. young adults (age 16 until history
Young Adulthood [84] (2021) 25) Depressive symptoms
Loneliness
Self-esteem
Life satisfation
Romantic Relationship Quality and Suicidal Ideation USA Quantitative, 132 adolescents followed Suicidal Ideation
in Young Adulthood [85] (2021) longitudinal. through young adulthood Relationship Status
Relationship Quality.
Substance use behaviors in the daily lives of U.S. USA Ecological Momentary young adults aged 18–21 Relationship status
college students reporting recent use: The varying Assessment, Relationship quality
roles of romantic relationships [86] (2021) quantitative Substance use
Childhood family
adversity
Effects of Personal Relationships on Physical The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 11

3.2.1. Relationship Status positively connected to health than the recent shift to a high-
quality relationship. On the other hand, a persistent low-quality
According to Braithwaite et al. [68], college students in
relationship was consistently more negatively connected to
committed romantic partnerships report higher well-being than
health, particularly alcoholism, than a recent move to a low-
single college students. Individuals who were in committed quality relationship. In their investigations, the pathways
relationships had fewer mental health issues. Being in a linking relationship quality to health do not appear to be
committed love relationship reduces problematic outcomes gendered.
primarily by reducing the number of sexual partners, which
reduces risky behaviors and adverse outcomes. College 3.2.2. Individual Factors
students in committed dating relationships were less likely than
Individual characteristics like attachment and self-efficacy
their single peers to participate in risky behaviors (e.g., binge
within the context of romantic relationships are found
drinking, driving while drunk). The incidence of less risky
significant for partners’ well-being. Young adults’
behaviors in committed relationships mediated the link
characteristics like attachment anxiety and conflicting
between relationship status and health issues. Whitton et al. behaviors in romantic relationships also contribute to
investigated similar variables and reported that being in a depressive symptoms [74]. Similarly, individual characteristics
committed relationship was related to reduced depressive like lower attachment anxiety and social distress in group
symptoms compared to being single for college women but not dating situations and greater self-efficacy in romantic
for males [76]. Being involved in a committed relationship was relationships predicted happiness and low psychological
linked to reduced problematic alcohol use for both genders. distress [82]. Hazer and shaver’s theory explains the
Soons & Liefbroer studied romantic relationships to happiness association of attachment styles to their romantic relationship
and concluded that singles have the lowest level of happiness, experiences [90]. They explained three attachment styles
followed by young people in committed relationships and secure, avoidant, and anxious-ambivalent and stressed that
cohabitators [63]. Adamczyk & Segrin investigated whether individuals with these three styles experience their romantic
young individuals in non-marital romantic relationships have relationships differently. Individuals with secure attachment
better mental health and fewer mental health problems than styles have happy romantic experiences, endure longer, and are
singles [78]. According to their findings, singles reported lower less likely to get divorced than avoidant and anxious-
emotional well-being than coupled individuals. There were no ambivalent individuals. Avoidant and Anxious-ambivalent
differences between single and paired individuals in social and individuals may experience jealousy, obsession, emotional
psychological well-being, somatic symptoms, anxiety, highs and lows, and fear of intimacy [91, 92]. Furthermore,
sleeplessness, social dysfunction, and severe depression. Simon Attachment Diathesis-Stress Process Model [93] states that
& Barrett [69] also found that current romantic involvements when a person is under external stress, attachment insecurity
can generate maladaptive perceptions and behaviors. These
are related to the emotional well-being of young adults and
maladaptive tendencies could adversely affect an individual's
associated with fewer depressive symptoms, in line with most
personal and relational well-being.
of the research concerning relationship status and mental
health. Although studies show prolonged singlehood as a risk 3.2.3. Relational Factors
factor, its nature and impact might vary culturally. In western
cultures, young people may feel stressed and lonely and out of Psychosocial variables like relationship styles and coping
step with peers if they are not in a romantic relationship. They strategies have more significance than demographic factors
might also have pressure to conform to peer norms. However, (e.g., age) in influencing mental health outcomes [72]. A
in non-Western and collectivistic cultures such as India, correlational examination of women’s romantic relationship
parents exert more constraints and control on children, due to intimacy reports found significant relationships between
intimacy and well-being indicators in Johnson et al.’s study
which young people experience pressure and stress in keeping
[75]. Positive intimacy is associated negatively with social
their relationships private [87, 88]. Therefore the experience of
avoidance, while intimacy frequency and intensity are
Indian young adults can be different. Future studies might
associated negatively with loneliness. Apart from the above
examine such cultural differences more elaborately. findings common for both genders, sexual intimacy was
There are four forms of romantic partnerships among rising negatively correlated with social avoidance for men alone.
adult college students: casual daters (23%), committers (38%), Blair & Holmberg showed that perceived social network
settlers (30%), and volatile daters (8%) [89]. Eisenberg et al. support for romantic relationships predicts higher relationship
showed that casual partner/ friends with benefits/ hook-ups well-being and more positive mental and physical health
were not psychologically harmful [67]. Young people who outcomes for relationship partners [64]. Furthermore, perceived
were sexually active and engaged in sexual intercourse with social support was substantially related to relationship well-
someone they were not dating appear not to be at any greater being, accounting for 57% of the variance. Relational well-
risk than sexually active young individuals in committed being has a moderate association with mental health and a
partnerships. However, having a devoted partner and being weak connection with physical health, accounting for 15% and
sexually active were related to greater mental health among 3% of the variance in these dimensions, respectively. Simon &
women. Conversely, Barr et al. [77] reported that being in a Barrett analyzed relational quality based on partner support and
romantic relationship does not affect either depression or strain [69]. Partner support is connected with reduced
physical health. However, it is important to note that people in depression, whereas partner strain is associated with more
high-quality relationships regularly outperformed single or depression for both genders. Partner support is linked to fewer
low-quality relationships in terms of mental health outcomes. substance issues, whereas partner strain is associated to
In no case was long-term, high-quality relationships more increased substance issues. The link between these aspects of a
12 The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 Navaneetham and Kanth

current relationship and substance abuse is more robust in depression, and suicidal ideation are most common for those
males than women [69]. who engage in sexting under pressure or receive unwanted
sexual photos. In Barr et al.’ s [77] study, simply having a
Gallaty & Zimmer-Gembeck [94] reported that daily
romantic partner seems substantial, as those who are coupled
romantic problems and positive relationship events were
report fewer drinking problems than their single counterparts.
related to same-day mood ratings in 17-22-year-olds. This
implies that relationship functioning is related to young adults’
Fleming et al. [70] figured out that heavy drinking, marijuana
emotional well-being; however, average weekly levels of usage, and cigarette smoking were linked to the dissolution of a
positive and negative relationship events were not correlated romantic relationship due to the increased usage of these
with levels of depressive symptoms. At the same time, several substances when switching partners within six months.
additional researchers investigated the relationship between Individuals establishing a new relationship or transitioning to a
romantic relationship quality and clinical symptomatology. more committed relationship status did not show a decrease in
Remen & Chambless [61] reported a link between self-reported substance usage. Those who went from being single to being in
relationship satisfaction and depressive symptoms. Similarly, a romantic relationship smoked more cigarettes than those who
Whitton & Kuryluk [95] explored associations between did not change their relationship status [70]. Partners’ binge
romantic relationship satisfaction and depressive symptoms in drinking behavior influenced respondents’ binge drinking
emerging adults in non-marital dating relationships. They behavior during young adulthood [80]. Blumenstock & Papp
reported a negative correlation between relationship [86] demonstrated the interrelations between romantic
satisfaction and depressive symptoms for men (small effect) relationship circumstances and drug habits. Relationship status,
and women (medium to large effect). Relationship satisfaction partner support, and partner presence at the moment are related
accounted for 14% variance in depressive symptoms of to at least one form of substance use behavior [86, 98]. They
women, being closely similar to that of 18% observed for also indicated that supportive partnerships are not universally
married women [96]. Linking romantic relationships with protective against substance use in the college population.
suicidal ideation, Still [85] found that respondents who report Aspects of romantic relationships like monitoring and partner
higher levels of romantic relationship quality in any romantic antisocial behavior were consistent with substance use [98].
relationship type are less likely to report suicidal ideation. Furthermore, Fleming et al. [99] reported cohabiting
relationships as a protective factor against substance use
3.2.4. Relational Aggression compared to singles.

Chow & Ruhl’s [34] study findings showed that emerging 3.2.6. Romantic Relationship Dissolutions
adults who face higher romantic stressors had increased
chances of feeling anxious and uncertain about their attachment Break-up or romantic dissolutions are significant events
ties, which leads to increased depressive symptoms. Marchand- among young adults that might cause implications for mental
Reilly [66] reported adopting more aggressive behaviors in health. Rhoades et al. [71] investigated the probable impact of
romantic relationships had higher depressive symptoms. relationship dissolution on unmarried couples’ mental health
Mackinnon et al. [73] indicated that, even when baseline and well-being. Although the overall effect sizes were minor,
depressive symptoms were adjusted for, dyadic conflict the findings imply that the end of a romantic relationship can
mediated the link between perfectionistic concerns and be a substantial stressor since it was associated with increases
depressive symptoms. Further, depressive symptoms acted as in psychological distress and declines in how individuals assess
both an antecedent and an outcome of the dyadic conflict. In their life satisfaction. A higher level of relationship quality
romantic partnerships, some degree of involvement in before the break-up was connected with a lesser drop in life
relational aggression was rather prevalent [65]. Goldstein et al. satisfaction after the break-up but not associated with changes
[65] studied correlations between aggression profile and mental in psychological discomfort. Living together and having
health parameters in the context of young adults’ romantic marriage aspirations were strongly connected with greater
relationships. The results demonstrated that the aggressiveness drops in life satisfaction followed by a breakup. Mirsu-Paun &
profile was linked to depression and anxiety symptoms. In Oliver’s [81] meta-analysis showed a modest association
terms of anxiety and depression, low aggressors/low victims between relationship variables (quality and break up) with
reported much fewer symptoms than any other profiles. In depression/self-harm.
terms of depression, low aggressors/low victims reported Simon and Barrett [69] investigated whether recent break-
significantly fewer symptoms than high aggressors/low victims ups are related to the emotional well-being of young adults.
or high aggressors/high victims. Studies show that relational Recent break-ups are associated with more depressive
aggression negatively affects the well-being of romantic symptoms. However, the link between a recent break-up and
partners and that insecure attachment is predictive of relational
depression is substantially more robust in women than males.
aggression [97].
Break-ups in the previous year are related to significantly
higher substance abuse/dependence levels, and this association
3.2.5. Romantic Relationship Circumstances and Risk
holds even when a current romantic involvement is included in
Behaviours
the model. A recent romantic break-up is linked to higher
Several studies have tested romantic relationship levels of depression in women than in males, whereas a current
associations with risky behaviors. Ouytsel et al. [83] conducted romantic relationship is linked to fewer substance abuse issues
a review of sexting in young adults’ dating and romantic in women. Fig. (3) presents a conceptual diagram of the risk
relationships and concluded that connections between sexting and protective factors associated with romantic and sexual
and adverse mental health outcomes such as anxiety, relationships affecting the mental health of young adults.
Effects of Personal Relationships on Physical The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 13

Romantic &
Sexual relationship

Protective factors Risk factors

Committed relationship Dyadic factors: Intimacy,
Prolonged singlehood Partners’ substance use
status Partner support

Romantic competence Relationship satisfaction Low relationship quality Low level of intimacy

Relationship quality High Social network Individual Lack of social network

support characteristics: support
Attachment anxiety,
Social distress in dating, Low partner support
low self efficacy,
 Relational wellbeing↑ conflicting behaviours,
aggressive behaviours Romantic dissolution
 Happiness↑
 Psychological well-being↑ Dyadic conflicts/ partner
Forced sexting
 Psychological distress↓ strain
 Social avoidance↓
 Loneliness↓
 Internalizing symptoms↓
 Suicidal ideation↓  Loneliness↑
 No. of sexual partners↓  Internalizing symptoms ↑
 Substance use↓  Substance use ↑
 Life satisfaction↓
 Psychological well-being↓

Fig. (3). Identified risk and protective factors of mental health in romantic and sexual relationships of young adults. Upwards arrow (↑) indicates an
increase in the respective variables. The downward arrow (↓) indicates a decrease in the respective variables.

Overall, the studies examining the association between companionship, solidarity, and negative features, such as
young adults’ romantic relationships and mental health conflicts, rivalry, and dominance, and the extent of these
demonstrated two sub-themes—protective and risk factors. We features may predict individual psychosocial adjustments. In
found several factors within one’s romantic relationship that the case of college-going young adults and those who stay in
positively and negatively impact one’s mental health and well- hostels- who are not near parents, siblings, or romantic
being. Current committed relationship, having good romantic partners, peers and friends are critically important [101]. They
competence, relationship quality and satisfaction, partner interact most with their peers and often involve career
support and intimacy are identified as protective factors which decisions, romantic involvement, and changing self-
enhance well-being and reduce clinical symptomatology and conceptions [102].
risk behaviors. In contrast, prolonged singlehood, lower
Lapierre and Poulin [36] examined the link between
intimacy, partner support, relationship quality, conflicts, friendship instability during emerging adulthood and
substance use, and several individual characteristics like depressive symptoms. According to their findings, friendship
insecure attachment, lower self-efficacy, dissolution of instability was strongly connected with depressive symptoms
relationship, and aggressive/conflicting behaviors are identified in young adulthood, but only among women who sought post-
as risk factors. The risk factors increase the chances of secondary education. Women’s friendships are more intimate
experiencing loneliness, internalizing symptoms like anxiety and emotionally close than men’s— they explained particularly
and depression, substance use, and reduced life satisfaction and women who were concerned about losing friends due to the
psychological well-being. The protective factors enhance move to post-secondary education had a poorer adjustment to
happiness and psychological well-being and reduce university and more feelings of loneliness and guilt. Miething
psychological distress, suicidal ideation, loneliness, substance et al. [103] examined friendship network quality and the
use, and risky sexual behaviors. psychological well-being of young people. They reported that
friendship network quality and psychological well-being were
3.3. Peer Relationships
positively correlated for both males and females. This
Peer and friendships are another important domain in the relationship was more evident during late adolescence at 19
personal relationships for young adults. Sullivan’s [100] years and less pronounced at 23 years [103]. At the same time,
interpersonal theory stated the influence of friendships on one’s friendship quality does not seem necessary for the well-being
self-esteem, which is crucial, especially in young adulthood. of romantically involved emerging adults— but it seems
Friendships may vary across their positive features, such as essential when in the phase of romantic dissolution [6].
14 The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 Navaneetham and Kanth

Chow & Ruhl’s [34] study found that emerging adults who improved mental health, an interesting finding is that—a recent
confront more friendship stressors are more likely to feel study by Roc [49] reported social support from friends being
anxious and doubtful about their attachment bonds, which linked to increased depressive symptoms.
leads to increased depressive symptoms. Leadbeater et al. Discomfort in interactions with friends was found to be
[104] investigated whether peer victimization predicts inversely related to self-esteem, positively related to
internalizing symptoms in young adult mental health. From interpersonal sensitivity (e.g., discomfort in interpersonal
adolescence to young adulthood (ages 12–27), patterns of interactions, self-doubt, and feelings of inferiority), and
physical and relational victimization are explored, as well as marginally related to overall symptomatology and anxiety.
concurrent and prospective relationships between internalizing Adverse changes in the relationship —relationship becoming
symptoms (depressive and anxious symptoms) and peer weaker— in 1 year caused increased interpersonal sensitivity.
victimization (physical and relational). Results indicated that A noteworthy conclusion was that negative features of
both types of victimization were linked to internalizing friendship were stronger predictors of adjustment than positive
symptoms in males and females throughout young adulthood. features in friendships. Narr et al. [108] reported that close
In an 18-year longitudinal study, Heinze et al. [105] found that friendship strength during adolescence is significantly
adolescent exposure to violence is linked to increased risk correlated with positive mental health changes during young
behaviors and mental health problems in young adulthood. adulthood and peer preference was predictive of higher levels
King & Terrance [106] evaluated the best friendship of later social anxiety during young adulthood. Young adults
qualities with the closest non-romantic friend and MMPI who possess closer best friendships during their teen years later
characteristics. The majority of the MMPI-2 scales (10 of 13) develop relatively lower depression symptoms, social anxiety,
correlated substantially with the participant’s tendency to and relative increases in self-worth by their twenties.
consider their best friend as secure, trustworthy, and unlikely to Mendelson and Kay [109] indicated that young adults in
produce feelings of humiliation or discomfort during the imbalanced friendships had lower positive feelings about their
interaction. Bagwell et al. [107] tested if friendship quality is friends and relationships. Apart from the negative
associated with clinical symptomatology and self-esteem, consequences when friendships do not go well, literature also
positive and negative changes (such as relationships growing shows friendships’ supportive roles in maintaining
stronger or becoming weaker or non-existent) associated with psychological well-being. Lee and Goldstein [110] showed that
adjustment levels of the individuals. Findings showed robust support from friends buffered the association between
associations between negative friendship features and clinical perceived stress and loneliness among young adults when other
symptoms. They argued that young adults with high levels of sources like family and romantic relationships did not affect
friendship conflicts report high levels of symptoms, hostility, the study. Support from friends or peers may be instrumental in
and anxiety. The negative association with interpersonal boosting an individual’s well-being and reducing levels of
sensitivity was also reported, though marginally. Greater distress caused by stress as individuals evolve from
satisfaction in friendship also showed higher self-esteem and adolescence to adulthood [110]. These empirical findings are
less feelings of hostility, whereas negative friendship consistent with the life course approach, which sets people’s
contributed to higher anxiety, hostility and overall symptoms relationships and meanings in a developmental context. (Table
when positive features were controlled. Although most of the 4) presents an overview of the nature and details of the studies
studies support that positive friendship features are linked to on peer relationships.

Table 4. Overview of the reviewed sources in the domain of peer relationships.

Title & Year Country Research Design Sample Outcome Measures

Positive feelings in friendship: Does imbalance in the Canada Quantitative dyadic data, 94 pairs age between positive feelings for a friend
relationship matter [109]? (2003) cross-sectional. 17–32 years; 98% from and satisfaction with the
18 to 25 year friendship.
Friend’s Functions
(stimulating companionship,
help, intimacy, reliable
alliance, emotional security,
and self-validation)
Respondent’s friendship
Functions
Kind of friendship
Friendship quality and perceived relationship changes USA Longitudinal, quantitative. Time 1= 51 dyads in Friendship quality
predict psychosocial adjustment in early adulthood 18-22 age range. Perceived Social Support
[107] (2005) Time2= 69 dyads individual adjustment
observational assessment of
friendship quality
Best Friendship Qualities and Mental Health USA Quantitative, cross- 398 college students MMPI
Symptomatology Among Young Adults [106] (2008) sectional. Friendship qualities
Effects of Personal Relationships on Physical The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 15

(Table 4) contd.....
Title & Year Country Research Design Sample Outcome Measures
Close Relationships and Happiness Among Emerging USA Quantitative, cross- 314 young adults from a Relationship Quality and
Adults [6] (2010) sectional. university Conflict
Happiness
Friendship and Romantic Stressors and Depression in USA Quantitative, cross- 164 emerging adults age Friendship and Romantic
Emerging Adulthood: Mediating and Moderating Roles sectional. ranging from 18 to 21 Stressors
of Attachment Representations [34] (2014) years Attachment Representations
depressive symptoms
It gets better or does it? Peer victimization and USA Quantitative, longitudinal. 459 youth (15- 22 years Physical and relational peer
internalizing problems in the transition to young five-wave multi- cohort old at T1 and ranged victimization.
adulthood [104] (2014) study from 20 to 27 years old Symptoms of internalizing
at T5) problems
Friendship networks and psychological well-being Sweden Quantitative, longitudinal. 772 youth Friendship network quality
from late adolescence to young adulthood: a gender- 2 wave study(at 19 and 23 Psychological well-being
specific structural equation modeling approach [103] years)
(2016)
Loneliness, Stress, and Social Support in Young USA Quantitative, cross- 636 college youth (age Perceived stress
Adulthood: Does the Source of Support Matter? [110] sectional. range 18–25) Sources of Social Support
(2016) Loneliness
Friendship Attachment Style Moderates the Effect of USA Quantitative, longitudinal. 850 youth (14-32 years) Depressive symptoms
Adolescent Exposure to Violence on Emerging Adult 12 wave study Anxiety symptoms
Depression and Anxiety Trajectories [105] (2018) Adolescent exposure to
violence
Observed violence
Victimization
Family physical violence
Friendship attachment
Friendship support
Close Friendship Strength and Broader Peer Group USA Quantitative, longitudinal. 169 adolescents Depressive Symptoms
Desirability as Differential Predictors of Adult Mental followed over a 10-year Self-Worth
Health [108] (2019) period(ages 15 to 25) Close Friendship Strength
Peer Affiliation Preference
Self-Perceived Social
Acceptance
Social Anxiety
Close Friendship
Consistency
Friendship instability and depressive symptoms in Canada Quantitative, longitudinal. 268 youth between 22 Friendship instability
emerging adulthood [36] (2020) and 26 years Depressive symptoms
Depression and Perception of Family Cohesion Levels USA Quantitative, cross- 372 participants (age Familial Cohesion
and Social Support from Friends in Emerging sectional. range from 18 to 25) Social support from friends
Adulthood at a University Mental Health Clinic [49] Depressive symptoms
(2020)

Our review of studies examining the association between 3.4. Interpersonal Relationships and Physical Health
peer relationships and mental health outcomes showed several Stressful interpersonal relationships, conflicts, or
sub-themes that promote or adversely affect mental health. dissatisfaction can affect physical and mental health under
Positive relationship experiences such as positive friendship conditions of allostatic load [14, 113], as the increase in stress
features, support, closeness and satisfaction in friendships and hormones is linked to acute and chronic stress [12]. Research
friendship network quality enhance one’s self-worth, self- has shown mixed answers to whether personal relationships
esteem and psychological well-being and reduce depression, have implications on physical health. Berry et al. [14]
social anxiety, loneliness, and hostility. On the other hand, conducted an exploratory study on the effects of relationship
negative friendship features, conflicts in friendships, poor stresses on a physiological level by measuring the salivary
friendship quality and peer victimization hamper one’s self- cortisol levels. Testing personality traits, quality of
esteem and adjustment and increase hostility, interpersonal interpersonal relationships, hormonal stress activity, and
sensitivity, internalizing symptoms, and clinical mental and physical health of undergraduate students in the
symptomatology. Fig. (4) depicts a conceptual understanding U.S. reported that relationships were associated with mental
of peer relationship features affecting the mental health of health outcomes but not physical health. Although, through
young adults. Unlike the other forms of relationships, such as relationship quality— the personality component showed
family and romantic partners, the influence of peer indirect effects on cortisol reactivity. Cortisol production
relationships on one’s self-esteem is somewhat more evident. increased when people reminisced about unhappy relationships
These findings demonstrate that acceptance in peer —suggesting acute stress. They also reported having greater
relationships is crucial in young adulthood, similar to mental health issues but fewer physical illnesses. Similarly,
adolescence [111, 112]. Ford and Collins [32] reported rejection in personal
16 The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 Navaneetham and Kanth

relationships linked to significant reductions in psychological had considerably lower overweight/ obesity scores than single
well-being but not physical health. participants. However, there was no substantial difference
Women’s attachment avoidance also predicts cortisol
between the groups regarding physical health problems. People
patterns in young dating couples. Before and during a reported believing that their significant others have a more
discussion about conflict with their dating partner, more positive role than negative impact on their health. Partners
avoidant female dating partners had higher cortisol levels, positively influence by promoting healthy eating habits,
followed by a rapid reduction in cortisol shortly after the physical exercise, medical help-seeking, self-esteem
session, possibly offering physiological relief once they could (especially for women), and maintaining personality traits/
disengage from the discussion [114]. In another research, by characteristics that enhance health and well-being [117]. Men’s
examining relationship experiences with parents and close and women’s views of their significant others’ health
friends during adolescence and blood samples 14 years later in influences were linked to their actual health results. Men’s
young adulthood, Ehrlich et al. [115] showed how the quality perceptions of their significant others’ impact on their health
of relationships with parents and friends in adolescence were linked to their BMIs, physical activity, medical help-
predicts metabolic risk in young adulthood. According to their seeking, and drinking and smoking habits. Women’s
results, females’ close and supportive relationships with their perceptions of their significant others’ health influences were
parents and male friends during adolescence minimized the risk linked to their BMIs, physical activity, and drinking and
of metabolic dysregulation in adulthood. Similarly, Women's smoking habits.
levels of dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation, are also Seeman et al. [118] investigated social relationships and
influenced by social support [116]. Women with greater their biological correlates. Results indicated multiple areas of
disruptions in their social networks had more menstruation biological regulation, including cardiovascular, metabolic,
symptoms than those with steady support. Losing positive and inflammatory, neuroendocrine, and autonomic activity, are
valued social ties can exacerbate or cause poor cognitive and highly related to the quantitative and qualitative qualities of
emotional states, which could, in turn, impact menstrual people's social networks. More close social interactions and
symptoms, either directly on physiological mechanisms that reported frequency of receiving assistance from close family
produce perimenstrual pain or indirectly through behavioral and friends are linked to healthier biological profiles,
practices that raise the chance of painful menstruation [116]. especially regarding inflammatory, metabolic, and autonomic
Braithwaite et al. [68] investigated the relationship status risks. On the other hand, a greater frequency of reported social
(committed/single) of college students and their health. pressures (excessive demands, criticism from others) was
According to the study, individuals in committed relationships linked to biological risk profiles.

• Positive friendship features

• Depression↓
• Closeness • Self worth↑
• Social anxiety↓
• Satisfaction • Psychological well being↑
• Loneliness↓
• Friend support • Self esteem↑
• Hostility↑
• Friendship network quality

Friendship

• Friendship stressors
• Friendship instability
• Clinical symptomatology↑ • Negative friendship
• Internalizing symptoms↑ features • Self esteem↓
• Hostility↑ • Reduced friendship quality • Adjustment↓
• Interpersonal sensitivity↑ • Peer victimization
• Conflicts
• Weakening of friendships
• Lower satisfaction

Fig. (4). Depicting the positive and negative mental health implications of young adults’ friendship characteristics. Upwards arrow (↑) indicates an
increase in the respective variables. Downward arrow (↓) indicated a decrease in the respective variables.
Effects of Personal Relationships on Physical The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 17

Table 5. Overview of the reviewed sources linking interpersonal relationships and physical health.

Title & Year Country Research Design Sample Outcome Measures

Marital stress: Immunologie, neuroendocrine, and USA Cross-sectional, 90 newlywed couples Marital problems
autonomic correlates [12] (1998) quantitative Physiological changes
Disruptions of Social Relationships Accentuate the USA Longitudinal, 184 women Social Support
Association Between Emotional Distress and qualitative. State-Trait Anxiety
Menstrual Pain in Young Women [116] (2001) Depression
Menstrual Symptoms
Forgivingness, relationship quality, stress while USA Cross-sectional, 39 undergraduate Personality traits associated
imagining relationship events, and physical and quantitative students - ages ranged with forgiveness and
mental health [14] (2001) from 18 to 42 years. (M unforgiveness
= 22.9) Relationship imagery
Quality of interpersonal
relationships
salivary cortisol
current mental and physical
health
Romantic Relationships and Health: An Examination USA Cross-sectional, 105 couples Romantic partners' influences
of Individuals’ Perceptions of their Romantic quantitative. on health
Partners’ Influences on their Health [117] (2007) level of love and conflict
weight status
participation in physical
activities
general health status
alcohol consumption and
smoking behaviors
general stress
Romantic relationships and the physical and mental USA Cross-sectional, 1,621 college students Relationship status
health of college students [68] (2010) quantitative, (18 to 25 years) Mental health problems
Physical health problems
Overweight/obesity
Risky behavior (sexual and
substance use behavior)
Social Relationships and Mortality Risk: A Meta- - Meta-analysis 148 studies aspects of social relationships
analytic Review [120] (2010) risk for mortality
Self-esteem Moderates the Effects of Daily Rejection USA Quantitative, cross- 101 undergraduate (age Trait self-esteem
on Health and Well-being [32] (2013) sectional. 17 to 22) Neuroticism
Daily feelings of rejection
General Mental Well-being
Daily Health Behaviors
Health-related Outcomes
Social relationships and their biological correlates: USA Longitudinal, 115 black and white men number of close friends or close
Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults quantitative. and women aged 18–30 relatives
(CARDIA) study [118] (2014) years relationship quality
17 biological parameters
Attachment and health-related physiological stress - Review. - Attachment
processes [114] (2015) Physiological stress
Health.
Quality of relationships with parents and friends in USA 14-year Longitudinal, 11,617 adolescents Parent-child relationship quality
adolescence predicts metabolic risk in young quantitative through young adulthood Peer relationship quality
adulthood [115] (2015) (24 to 32 years) Metabolic risk index

According to cross-sectional research of adults, valuing have quoted a few studies which address the general
friendships was linked to increased functioning, especially population. We retained these studies as the mechanisms
among the elderly, but valuing familial bonds had a consistent linking interpersonal relationships and the physiological
effect on health and well-being throughout life. Only strain process might not be very different. An overview of studies
from friendships predicted greater chronic illnesses during six linking interpersonal relationships and physical health is
years in a longitudinal study of older persons; support from presented in Table 5.
spouses, children, and friends predicted greater subjective well-
being over eight years [119]. Several prospective studies even 3.5. Scarcity of Personal Relationship Research in non-
tested how social relationships affected individual mortality.
Western Cultural Context
People who had greater social relationships had a 50% higher
chance of survival than those with lower social relationships Analyzing the literature databases on personal
[120]. Although this review focus on young adults, we also relationships, we understand that published research on
18 The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 Navaneetham and Kanth

personal relationships is incredibly scarce from non-western homeland youth. Furthermore, diaspora youth had more cross-
cultures. The rules and practices that prevail in a given social sex friends than traditional youth. According to Lu et al. [133],
context affect and shape people’s attitudes and behavior [121]. examining individuals from a considerable number of countries
Cultural variations such as individualism-collectivism, worldwide argued that women, those with greater levels of
patriarchy, and hierarchical family systems bring different education, and persons living in more economically equitable
interpersonal dynamics. Apart from these native cultural and indulgent countries place a more significant priority on
influences within Western or non-western cultures, many friendships. Prioritizing friendships throughout life was
collectivistic and economically developing countries rapidly connected with improved health and well-being, but various
change their socio-cultural milieu due to globalization and cultural factors influence these correlations.
acculturation. In countries like India, the global influence is Given that cultural contexts greatly influence
exerting pressure and changes to the character of Indian family psychological processes, attachment functioning, and
systems [122]. interpersonal dynamics, research from non-western cultures in
Individualism and collectivism are two cultural ideals that interpersonal fields is necessary. We are not sure if
influence how people define themselves, relate to others, and interpersonal relationships affect health similarly in non-
engage with their social environment [123]. Cultural western cultures. In this context, we recommend future
differences influence romantic beliefs, traditional mate research to explore the interpersonal dynamics across multiple
preferences, relationship attitudes [124], and relationship close relationships and examine how interpersonal
quality [121]. In Eastern collectivistic cultures, Family bonds characteristics affect young adults’ mental and physical health
are highly regarded and play a dominant role [122]; it stresses across non-western, collectivistic cultural contexts such as the
the merits of in-group harmony and cohesion [125]. The Philippines, Thailand, China, Spain, Japan, India, Korea, etc.
practice of filial piety [126], patriarchal and hierarchical power Moreover, the perusal of the geographical distribution of
distributions within the family, necessitates the children/adult studies (refer to (Table 1) shows that the majority of studies
children to get approval from elder family members for appear to be undertaken in the USA. Within the western,
individual matters. Individuals have to follow long-established individualistic cultural milieu, much research comes from the
norms and practices within family and culture, with those who United States, with a few from Canada. As a result, research
breach these standards often facing harsh cultural sanctions from non-western collectivistic cultural contexts as well as
[127]. However, in individualistic Western cultures, choices other western, individualistic countries such as Germany,
are often left to individuals’ own devices and enjoy the Australia, France, Italy, New Zealand, England, and others is
freedom of choice [121]. This value system promotes required.
autonomy, self-expression, and individuality sanctions to
4. LIMITATIONS AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS
pursue important personal goals, make decisions based on their
own self-determination, and are directed by their own life Although this scoping review presents a broad view of the
choices [128]. factors in the personal relationships of young adults
contributing to their health and well-being, this review also
Westerners typically begin dating in their adolescence to
possesses some limitations. This review has used only
explore various love relationships. Nevertheless, in eastern
published articles and other materials such as dissertations and
collectivistic cultures like India, youth do not have a concept of
theses which are available online. Future studies should also
‘dating.’− Children are expected to be under their parents’ consider the grey literature databases apart from the published
authority and supervision until they marry [129]. Unlike youth and digitized contents. Although we have included studies with
in Western culture, premarital romantic and sexual diverse research designs, we have not evaluated the methods in
relationships among unmarried young adults in India are highly each study. This scoping review covers broader aspects of
restricted by family and other social institutions [130]. personal relationships that affect young adults’ health and well-
Individualistic cultures place a higher value on romantic being. Future studies such as systematic reviews and meta-
connections as a precursor to marriage, whereas collectivistic analyses in each specific factor/ domain (e.g., romantic
cultures place the lowest value on romantic ties before relationships) would be beneficial and offer opportunities for
marriage (104). Premarital love connections among youth are future improvements.
strongly discouraged in India, a country widely perceived as
traditionalistic [131, 132]. Bejanyan et al. [124] found that 5. IMPLICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Indians indicated higher levels of collectivism, which led to
This scoping review shows that the personal relationships
more romantic views, conventional partner choices, and a
of young adults have important implications for their physical
greater expectation of future marital issues. Likewise, there are
and mental health. Satisfying personal relationships are an
cultural variations in mate poaching experiences being most
advantage to young people’s physical and mental health and
popular in Southern Europe, South America, Western Europe,
well-being. Building interpersonal skills for personal
and Eastern Europe, with Africa, South/Southeast Asia, and
relationships would equip young adults to better manage their
East Asia being comparatively uncommon.
relationships. Building interpersonal skills will increase young
Like differences in interpersonal dynamics in family and people’s interpersonal competency. Interpersonal skills may
romantic relationships, Dhariwal and Connolly [126] illustrated moderate the association between interpersonal problems and
cultural influences on friendships− Diaspora youth endorsing health and well-being. In light of this review, we recommend
more friend permissiveness and friend communication than developing and disseminating comprehensive relationship
Effects of Personal Relationships on Physical The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 19

education for youth. We also advocate a shift from the notion FUNDING
of Relationship education solely indicating the domains of pre- None.
marital dating and married couple relationships to other
important domains like family and peer relationships. CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Comprehensive relationship education programs, including all
The authors declare no conflict of interest, financial or
domains of personal relationships, would benefit young people.
otherwise.
Our review clearly shows the role of parents and other
family members in fostering well-being among young adults. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Parents might lack models and knowledge in dealing with and Declared none.
navigating their relationships with their young adult children,
making the relationship strained or dysfunctional. Hence, REFERENCES
parental educational programs aiming to improve positive [1] Arnett JJ, Žukauskienė R, Sugimura K. The new life stage of emerging
parenting practices would help reduce the friction within the adulthood at ages 18–29 years: Implications for mental health. Lancet
family and could directly improve family interactions and Psychiatry 2014; 1(7): 569-76.http://jeffreyarnett.com/Arnett new
website/Articles/AZK.LANCET.2014.pdf
family functioning. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2215-0366(14)00080-7] [PMID:
Importantly, the interpersonal dynamics would greatly vary 26361316]
[2] McGorry PD, Purcell R, Hickie IB, Jorm AF. Investing in youth
across cultures. Therefore, we believe developing culturally mental health is a best buy. Med J Aust 2007; 187(S7)
appropriate relationship education programs should be [http://dx.doi.org/10.5694/j.1326-5377.2007.tb01326.x]
considered. UK government’s provision for compulsory [3] Gustavson K, Knudsen AK, Nesvåg R, Knudsen GP, Vollset SE,
Reichborn-Kjennerud T. Prevalence and stability of mental disorders
relationships education in all primary schools in England and among young adults: Findings from a longitudinal study. BMC
Relationships and Sex Education in all secondary schools serve Psychiatry 2018; 18(1): 65. https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com/
as a good model for a community-wide relationship education articles/10.1186/s12888-018-1647-5
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s12888-018-1647-5] [PMID: 29530018]
to build on young people’s personal and social lives. This [4] Ryff CD, Singer B. Interpersonal Flourishing: A Positive Health
would contribute to positive youth development and well- Agenda for the New Millennium. Pers Soc Psychol Rev 2000; 4(1):
being. Application of interpersonal skill development agendas 30-44.http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1207/S15327957PSPR0401_
4
in counseling and psychotherapies in schools, colleges, and [http://dx.doi.org/10.1207/S15327957PSPR0401_4]
universities are recommended. Apart from this, the [5] Bonnie RJ, Stroud C, Breiner H. Investing in the Health and Well-
geographical distribution of studies in relationship research is Being of Young Adults [Internet] Investing in the Health and Well-
Being of Young Adults
skewed in favor of Western cultural contexts. Therefore, we 2015.https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=jMyhBgAAQB
also recommend that future research include other cultural AJ&oi=fnd&pg=PT24&dq=Investing+in+the+Health+and+Well-
contexts (e.g., eastern, collectivistic). Being+of+Young+Adults.&ots=Mpf-
TRKMcs&sig=jRVd6OXyPbPZdO3oFpxbLADlfw4
[6] Demir M. Close Relationships and Happiness Among Emerging
CONCLUSION Adults. J Happiness Stud 2010; 11(3):
293-313.http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s10902-009-9141-x
The review shows that young adults experience different [Internet].
kinds of interpersonal difficulties, and the nature and quality of [http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10902-009-9141-x]
their personal relationships —family, friends, and romantic [7] Baumeister RF, Leary MR. The need to belong: Desire for
interpersonal attachments as a fundamental human motivation. Psychol
partners are significant predictors of mental health and well- Bull 1995; 117(3): 497-529.
being. There are mixed findings on the effect of interpersonal [http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.117.3.497] [PMID: 7777651]
relationships affecting physical health. However, interpersonal [8] Londahl EA, Tverskoy A, D’Zurilla TJ. The Relations of Internalizing
Symptoms to Conflict and Interpersonal Problem Solving in Close
stress in the long term might threaten physical health. The poor Relationships. Cognit Ther Res 2005; 29(4): 445-62.
representation of studies investigating interpersonal dynamics [http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10608-005-4442-9]
and health from non-western cultural contexts suggests that [9] Smith TW, Christensen AJ. Hostility, health, and social
contexts.Hostility, coping, & health. Washington: American
future studies shall focus on the majority world. Based on the Psychological Association 1992; pp. 33-48. Internet
findings from the abovementioned studies, we recommend [http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/10105-002]
inculcating relationship education programs and relationship [10] Spielberger CD, Reheiser EC, Sydeman SJ. Measuring the experience,
expression, and control of anger. Issues Compr Pediatr Nurs 1995;
counseling services for young adults in order to navigate into
18(3): 207-32.
successful and healthy adulthood. [http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/01460869509087271] [PMID: 8707652]
[11] Kern ML, Waters LE, Adler A, White MA. A multidimensional
CONSENT FOR PUBLICATION approach to measuring well-being in students: Application of the
PERMA framework. J Posit Psychol 2015; 10(3): 262-71.
Not applicable. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17439760.2014.936962] [PMID: 25745508]
[12] Kiecolt-Glaser JK, Glaser R, Cacioppo JT, Malarkey WB. Marital
stress: immunologic, neuroendocrine, and autonomic correlates. Ann
AVAILABILITY OF DATA AND MATERIALS N Y Acad Sci 1998; 840(1): 656-63.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1749-6632.1998.tb09604.x] [PMID:
Not applicable. 9629292]
[13] Pietromonaco PR, Collins NL. Interpersonal mechanisms linking close
STANDARDS OF REPORTING relationships to health. Am Psychol 2017; 72(6): 531-42.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/amp0000129] [PMID: 28880100]
PRISMA Guidelines were followed. [14] Berry JW, Worthington EL. Forgivingness, relationship quality, stress
20 The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 Navaneetham and Kanth

while imagining relationship events, and physical and mental health. J Joanna Briggs Institute reviewers’ manual 2015: Methodology for JBI
Couns Psychol 2001; 48(4): 447-55. scoping reviews. 2015.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/0022-0167.48.4.447] [38] Tricco AC, Lillie E, Zarin W, et al. PRISMA extension for scoping
[15] De Jong GJ, Van Tilburg T, Dykstra PA, Vangelisti A, Perlman D. reviews (PRISMA-ScR): Checklist and explanation. Ann Intern Med
Cambridge handbook of personal relationships. 2006. 2018; 169(7): 467-73.
[16] Van Lear A, Koerner AF, Allen D. Relationship Typologies.Handbook [http://dx.doi.org/10.7326/M18-0850] [PMID: 30178033]
of personal relationships. Cambridge University Press 2006; pp. [39] Page MJ, McKenzie JE, Bossuyt PM, et al. The PRISMA 2020
91-111. statement: An updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews. Int J
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511606632.007] Surg 2021; 88105906
[17] Sullivan HS. The Interpersonal Theory of Psychiatry Edited by Helen [http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ijsu.2021.105906] [PMID: 33789826]
Swick Perry and Mary Ladd Gawel, with an Introduction by Mabel [40] Rubega M, Di Marco R, Zampini M, et al. Muscular and cortical
Blake Cohen Tavistock Publications. 1955. activation during dynamic and static balance in the elderly: A scoping
[18] Arcelus J, Haslam M, Farrow C, Meyer C. The role of interpersonal review. Aging Brain 2021; 1: 100013.
functioning in the maintenance of eating psychopathology: A [http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.nbas.2021.100013]
systematic review and testable model. Clin Psychol Rev 2013; 33(1): [41] Bertuccelli M, Cantele F, Masiero S. Body image and body schema in
156-67. adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis: A scoping review. Adolesc Res
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2012.10.009] [PMID: 23195616] Rev 2022; 1-19.
[19] Ung EM, Erichsen CB, Poulsen S, Lau ME, Simonsen S, Davidsen [http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s40894-022-00187-4]
AH. The association between interpersonal problems and treatment [42] Thomas PA, Liu H, Umberson D. Family Relationships and Well-
outcome in patients with eating disorders. J Eat Disord 2017; 5(1): 53. Being. Innov Aging 2017; 1(3): igx025.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40337-017-0179-6] [PMID: 29201364] [http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/geroni/igx025] [PMID: 29795792]
[20] Klerman G w M, Rounsaville B, Chevron E. Interpersonal [43] García Mendoza MDC, Sánchez Queija I, Parra Jiménez Á. The Role
Psychotherapy of Depression. 1984. of Parents in Emerging Adults’ Psychological Well-Being: A Person-
[21] Belsky J. Modern evolutionary theory and patterns of attachment. Oriented Approach. Fam Process 2019; 58(4): 954-71.
1999. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/famp.12388] [PMID: 30198562]
[22] Bowlby J. Attachment and loss: volume I: attachment. 1969. [44] Crocetti E, Meeus W. “Family Comes First!” Relationships with
[23] Ravitz P, Maunder R, McBride C. Attachment, contemporary family and friends in Italian emerging adults. J Adolesc 2014; 37(8):
interpersonal theory and IPT: An integration of theoretical, clinical, 1463-73.
and empirical perspectives. J Contemp Psychother 2008; 38(1): 11-21. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.adolescence.2014.02.012] [PMID:
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10879-007-9064-y] 24655667]
[24] Maunder RG, Hunter JJ. Attachment and psychosomatic medicine: [45] Jansen K. Extended Family Relationships: How They Impact the
developmental contributions to stress and disease. Psychosom Med Mental Health of Young Adults. 2017.theses and dissertations--family
2001; 63(4): 556-67. sciences.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/00006842-200107000-00006] [PMID: [46] Ponti L, Smorti M. The roles of parental attachment and sibling
11485109] relationships on life satisfaction in emerging adults. J Soc Pers Relat
[25] Feeney BC, Collins NL. A new look at social support: A theoretical 2019; 36(6): 1747-63.
perspective on thriving through relationships. Pers Soc Psychol Rev [http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0265407518771741]
2015; 19(2): 113-47. [47] Chen Y, Haines J, Charlton BM, VanderWeele TJ. Positive parenting
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1088868314544222] [PMID: 25125368] improves multiple aspects of health and well-being in young
[26] Kiesler DJ. Contemporary interpersonal theory and research: adulthood. Nat Hum Behav 2019; 3(7): 684-91.
Personality, psychopathology, and psychotherapy. J Psychother Pract [http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41562-019-0602-x] [PMID: 31061491]
Res 1997; 6(4): 339. [48] Chiao C, Chen Y-H, Yi C-C. Loneliness in young adulthood: Its
[27] Haefner J. An application of Bowen family systems theory. Issues intersecting forms and its association with psychological well-being
Ment Health Nurs 2014; 35(11): 835-41. and family characteristics in Northern Taiwan 2019; 14(5):
[http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/01612840.2014.921257] [PMID: 25353296] e0217777.https://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0217777
[28] Brown J. Bowen family systems theory and practice: Illustration and [49] Roc S. Depression and Perception of Family Cohesion Levels and
critique. Aust N Z J Fam Ther 1999; 20(2): 94-103. Social Support from Friends in Emerging Adulthood at a University
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/j.1467-8438.1999.tb00363.x] Mental Health Clinic. College Park: University of Maryland 2020.
[29] Clark MS, Graham SM. Do relationship researchers neglect singles? [50] Goger P, Rozenman M, Gonzalez A. The association between current
Can we do better? Psychol Inq 2005. maternal psychological control, anxiety symptoms, and emotional
[30] Siu AMH, Shek DTL. Social Problem Solving as a Predictor of Well- regulatory processes in emerging adults. J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry
being in Adolescents and Young Adults. Soc Indic Res 2010; 95(3): 2020; 68: 101563.
393-406. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jbtep.2020.101563] [PMID: 32145580]
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11205-009-9527-5] [51] Cassidy T, Wright E, Noon E. Family Structure and Psychological
[31] Sherman AM, Lansford J, Volling BL. Sibling relationships and best Health in Young Adults. Psychology (Irvine) 2014; 5(10): 1165-74.
friendships in young adulthood: Warmth, conflict, and well-being. [http://dx.doi.org/10.4236/psych.2014.510129]
Pers Relatsh 2006; 13(2): 151-65. [52] Fosco GM, Caruthers AS, Dishion TJ. A six-year predictive test of
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1475-6811.2006.00110.x] adolescent family relationship quality and effortful control pathways to
[32] Ford MB, Collins NL. Self-esteem Moderates the Effects of Daily emerging adult social and emotional health. J Fam Psychol 2012;
Rejection on Health and Well-being. Self Ident 2013; 12(1): 16-38. 26(4): 565-75.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15298868.2011.625647] [http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/a0028873] [PMID: 22709261]
[33] Lambert NM, Stillman TF, Baumeister RF, Fincham FD, Hicks JA, [53] Miller JB, Lane M. Relations between young adults and their parents. J
Graham SM. Family as a salient source of meaning in young Adolesc 1991; 14(2): 179-94.
adulthood. J Posit Psychol 2010; 5(5): 367-76. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/0140-1971(91)90030-U] [PMID: 1918519]
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17439760.2010.516616] [54] Allen JP, Hauser ST, Bell KL, O’Connor TG. Longitudinal assessment
[34] Chow CM, Ruhl H. Friendship and romantic stressors and depression of autonomy and relatedness in adolescent-family interactions as
in emerging adulthood: Mediating and moderating roles of attachment predictors of adolescent ego development and self-esteem. Child Dev
representations. J Adult Dev 2014; 21(2): 106-15. 1994; 65(1): 179-94.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10804-014-9184-z] [http://dx.doi.org/10.2307/1131374] [PMID: 8131646]
[35] Darling CA, McWey LM, Howard SN, Olmstead SB. College student [55] Cullaty B. The role of parental involvement in the autonomy
stress: The influence of interpersonal relationships on sense of development of traditional-age college students. J Coll Student Dev
coherence. Stress Health 2007; 23(4): 215-29. 2011; 52(4): 425-39.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/smi.1139] [http://dx.doi.org/10.1353/csd.2011.0048]
[36] Lapierre S, Poulin F. Friendship instability and depressive symptoms [56] García-Mendoza MDC, Parra Á, Sánchez-Queija I, Arranz Freijo EB.
in emerging adulthood. J Am Coll Health 2020; 1-5. Emotional autonomy and adjustment among emerging adults: The
[PMID: 32813625] moderating role of family relationships. Scand J Psychol 2020; 61(3):
[37] Peters M, Godfrey C, McInerney P, Soares C, Khalil H, Parker D. The 380-7.
Effects of Personal Relationships on Physical The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 21

[http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/sjop.12614] [PMID: 32103525] relationship intimacy associations with well-being in emerging

[57] Mak HW, Fosco GM, Lanza ST. Dynamic Associations of adulthood. Identity 2012; 12(4): 296-319.
Parent–Adolescent Closeness and Friend Support With Adolescent [http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/15283488.2012.716381]
Depressive Symptoms Across Ages 12–19. J Res Adolesc 2021; 31(2): [76] Whitton SW, Weitbrecht EM, Kuryluk AD, Bruner MR. Committed
299-316. dating relationships and mental health among college students. J Am
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/jora.12597] [PMID: 33241902] Coll Health 2013; 61(3): 176-83.
[58] Wagner BM, Silverman MAC, Martin CE. Family factors in youth [http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2013.773903] [PMID: 25158015]
suicidal behaviors. Am Behav Sci 2003; 46(9): 1171-91. [77] Barr AB, Culatta E, Simons RL. Romantic relationships and health
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0002764202250661] among African American young adults: linking patterns of relationship
[59] Roberts REL, Bengtson VL. Relationships with Parents, Self-Esteem, quality over time to changes in physical and mental health. J Health
and Psychological Well-Being in Young Adulthood. Soc Psychol Q Soc Behav 2013; 54(3): 369-85.
1993; 56(4): 263. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0022146513486652] [PMID: 23657713]
[http://dx.doi.org/10.2307/2786663] [78] Adamczyk K, Segrin C. Perceived Social Support and Mental Health
[60] Fingerman K. Extended Family and Mental Health Encyclopedia of Among Single vs. Partnered Polish Young Adults. Curr Psychol 2015;
Mental Health. 2016. 34(1): 82-96.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-397045-9.00105-1] [http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12144-014-9242-5] [PMID: 25774079]
[61] Remen AL, Chambless DL. Predicting dysphoria and relationship [79] Davila J, Mattanah J, Bhatia V, et al. Romantic competence, healthy
adjustment: Gender differences in their longitudinal relationship. Sex relationship functioning, and well-being in emerging adults. Pers
Roles 2001; 44(1/2): 45-60. Relatsh 2017; 24(1): 162-84.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1011085816484] [http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/pere.12175]
[62] Meeus WHJ, Branje SJT, van der Valk I, de Wied M. Relationships [80] Holway GV, Umberson D, Thomeer MB. Binge drinking and
with intimate partner, best friend, and parents in adolescence and early depression. Soc Ment Health 2017; 7(1): 36-49.
adulthood: A study of the saliency of the intimate partnership. Int J [http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/2156869316674056] [PMID: 28642834]
Behav Dev 2007; 31(6): 569-80. [81] Mirsu-Paun A, Oliver JA. How much does love really hurt? a meta-
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0165025407080584] analysis of the association between romantic relationship quality,
[63] Soons JPM, Liefbroer AC. Together is better? Effects of relationship breakups and mental health outcomes in adolescents and young adults.
status and resources on young adults’ well-being. J Soc Pers Relat J Relationsh Res 2017; 8: e5.
2008; 25(4): 603-24. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/jrr.2017.6]
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0265407508093789] [82] Weisskirch RS. Abilities in romantic relationships and well-being
[64] Blair KL, Holmberg D. Perceived social network support and well- among emerging adults. Marriage Fam Rev 2017; 53(1): 36-47.
being in same-sex versus mixed-sex romantic relationships. J Soc Pers [http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01494929.2016.1195471]
Relat 2008; 25(5): 769-91. [83] Van Ouytsel J, Punyanunt-Carter NM, Walrave M, Ponnet K. Sexting
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0265407508096695] within young adults’ dating and romantic relationships. Curr Opin
[65] Goldstein SE, Chesir-Teran D, McFaul A. Profiles and Correlates of Psychol 2020; 36: 55-9.
Relational Aggression in Young Adults’ Romantic Relationships. J [http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2020.04.007] [PMID: 32480021]
Youth Adolesc 2008; 37(3): 251-65. [84] Gonzalez Avilés T, Finn C, Neyer FJ. Patterns of romantic relationship
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10964-007-9255-6] experiences and psychosocial adjustment from adolescence to young
[66] Marchand-Reilly JF. Depressive Symptoms in Young Adults: The adulthood. J Youth Adolesc 2021; 50(3): 550-62.
Role of Attachment Orientations and Romantic Relationship Conflict. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10964-020-01350-7] [PMID: 33196893]
J Adult Dev 2009; 16(1): 31-8. [85] Still D. Romantic relationship quality and suicidal ideation in young
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10804-009-9049-z] adulthood. Soc Ment Health 2021; 11(2): 134-48.
[67] Eisenberg ME, Ackard DM, Resnick MD, Neumark-Sztainer D. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/2156869320929386]
Casual sex and psychological health among young adults: is having [86] Blumenstock SM, Papp LM. Substance use behaviors in the daily lives
“friends with benefits” emotionally damaging? Perspect Sex Reprod of U.S. college students reporting recent use: The varying roles of
Health 2009; 41(4): 231-7. romantic relationships. Soc Sci Med 2021; 279: 114021.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1363/4123109] [PMID: 20444178] [http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114021] [PMID:
[68] Braithwaite SR, Delevi R, Fincham FD. Romantic relationships and 34004570]
the physical and mental health of college students. Pers Relatsh 2010; [87] What the data tells us about love and marriage in India - BBC News.
17(1): 1-12. 2021.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1475-6811.2010.01248.x] [88] 81% women find it difficult to open up about their relationships before
[69] Simon RW, Barrett AE. Nonmarital romantic relationships and mental their parents: Survey - Times of India. 2020.
health in early adulthood: Does the association differ for women and [89] Roberson PNE, Norona JC, Fish JN, Olmstead SB, Fincham F. Do
men? J Health Soc Behav 2010; 51(2): 168-82. differences matter? A typology of emerging adult romantic
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0022146510372343] [PMID: 20617757] relationship. J Soc Pers Relat 2017; 34(3): 334-55.
[70] Fleming CB, White HR, Oesterle S, Haggerty KP, Catalano RF. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0265407516661589]
Romantic relationship status changes and substance use among 18- to [90] Hazan C, Shaver P. Romantic love conceptualized as an attachment
20-year-olds. J Stud Alcohol Drugs 2010; 71(6): 847-56. process. J Pers Soc Psychol 1987; 52(3): 511-24.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.15288/jsad.2010.71.847] [PMID: 20946741] [http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.52.3.511] [PMID: 3572722]
[71] Rhoades GK, Kamp Dush CM, Atkins DC, Stanley SM, Markman HJ. [91] Feeney JA, Noller P. Attachment style as a predictor of adult romantic
Breaking up is hard to do: The impact of unmarried relationship relationships. J Pers Soc Psychol 1990; 58(2): 281-91.
dissolution on mental health and life satisfaction. J Fam Psychol 2011; [http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.58.2.281]
25(3): 366-74. [92] Collins NL, Read SJ. Adult attachment, working models, and
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/a0023627] [PMID: 21517174] relationship quality in dating couples. J Pers Soc Psychol 1990; 58(4):
[72] Leung C, Moore S, Karnilowicz W, Lung CL. Romantic relationships, 644-63.
relationship styles, coping strategies, and psychological distress among [http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.58.4.644] [PMID: 14570079]
chinese and australian young adults. Soc Dev 2011; 20(4): 783-804. [93] Simpson JA, Rholes WS. Adult attachment orientations, stress, and
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9507.2011.00616.x] romantic relationships.Advances in experimental social psychology
[73] Mackinnon SP, Sherry SB, Antony MM, Stewart SH, Sherry DL, Elsevier. 2012; pp. 279-328.
Hartling N. Caught in a bad romance: Perfectionism, conflict, and [http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-394286-9.00006-8]
depression in romantic relationships. J Fam Psychol 2012; 26(2): [94] Gallaty K, Zimmer-Gembeck MJ. The Daily Social and Emotional
215-25. Worlds of Adolescents Who Are Psychologically Maltreated by Their
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/a0027402] [PMID: 22353007] Romantic Partners. J Youth Adolesc 2008; 37(3): 310-23.
[74] Marchand-Reilly JF. Attachment anxiety, conflict behaviors, and [http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10964-007-9248-5]
depressive symptoms in emerging adults’ romantic relationships. J [95] Whitton SW, Kuryluk AD. Relationship satisfaction and depressive
Adult Dev 2012; 19(3): 170-6. symptoms in emerging adults: Cross-sectional associations and
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10804-012-9144-4] moderating effects of relationship characteristics. J Fam Psychol 2012;
[75] Johnson HD, Kent A, Yale E. Examination of identity and romantic 26(2): 226-35.
22 The Open Psychology Journal, 2022, Volume 15 Navaneetham and Kanth

[http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/a0027267] [PMID: 22329388] 896-904.

[96] Whisman MA. The association between depression and marital [http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/hea0000213] [PMID: 25689301]
dissatisfaction.Marital and family processes in depression: A scientific [116] Alonso C, Coe CL. Disruptions of social relationships accentuate the
foundation for clinical practice. Washington: American Psychological association between emotional distress and menstrual pain in young
Association 2001; pp. 3-24. Internet women. Health Psychol 2001; 20(6): 411-6.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/10350-001] [http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/0278-6133.20.6.411] [PMID: 11714182]
[97] Oka M, Brown CC, Miller RB. Attachment and relational aggression: [117] Markey CN, Markey PM, Gray HF. Romantic Relationships and
Power as a mediating variable. Am J Fam Ther 2016; 44(1): 24-35. Health: An Examination of Individuals’ Perceptions of their Romantic
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01926187.2015.1105716] Partners’ Influences on their Health. Sex Roles 2007; 57(5-6): 435-45.
[98] Angulski K, Armstrong T, Bouffard LA. The Influence of Romantic [http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11199-007-9266-5]
Relationships on Substance Use in Emerging Adulthood. J Drug Issues [118] Seeman TE, Gruenewald TL, Cohen S, Williams DR, Matthews KA.
2018; 48(4): 572-89. Social relationships and their biological correlates: Coronary Artery
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0022042618783490] Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study.
[99] Fleming CB, White HR, Catalano RF. Romantic relationships and Psychoneuroendocrinology 2014; 43: 126-38.
substance use in early adulthood: An examination of the influences of [http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.02.008] [PMID: 24703178]
relationship type, partner substance use, and relationship quality. J [119] Chopik WJ. Associations among relational values, support, health, and
Health Soc Behav 2010; 51(2): 153-67. well-being across the adult lifespan. Pers Relatsh 2017; 24(2): 408-22.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0022146510368930] [PMID: 20617756] [http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/pere.12187]
[100] Sullivan HS. The interpersonal theory of psychiatry. New York: WW [120] Holt-Lunstad J, Smith TB, Layton JB. Social Relationships and
Norton 1953. Mortality Risk: A Meta-analytic Review 2010.
[101] Blieszner & Adams. Adult Friendship [Internet] 2455 Teller Road, [121] Bejanyan K, Marshall TC, Ferenczi N. Associations of Collectivism
Thousand Oaks California 91320 United States: SAGE Publications, with Relationship Commitment, Passion, and Mate Preferences:
Inc 1992.http://sk.sagepub.com/books/adult-friendship Opposing Roles of Parental Influence and Family Allocentrism 2015;
[102] Rawlins WK. Friendship matters Communication, dialectics and the 10(2): e0117374.
life course. New York: Aldine de Gruyter 1992. [122] Tuli M, Chaudhary N. Elective interdependence: Understanding
[103] Miething A, Almquist YB, Östberg V, Rostila M, Edling C, Rydgren individual agency and interpersonal relationships in Indian families.
J. Friendship networks and psychological well-being from late Cult Psychol 2010; 16(4): 477-96.
adolescence to young adulthood: A gender-specific structural equation [http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1354067X10380157]
modeling approach. BMC Psychol 2016; 4(1): 34. [123] Singelis TM, Triandis HC, Bhawuk DPS, Gelfand MJ. Horizontal and
vertical dimensions of individualism and collectivism: A theoretical
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s40359-016-0143-2] [PMID: 27401995]
and measurement refinement. Cross-Cultural Res 1995; 29(3): 240-75.
[104] Leadbeater BJ, Thompson K, Sukhawathanakul P. It gets better or
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/106939719502900302]
does it? Peer victimization and internalizing problems in the transition
[124] Bejanyan K, Marshall TC, Ferenczi N. Romantic ideals, mate
to young adulthood. Dev Psychopathol 2014; 26(3): 675-88.
preferences, and anticipation of future difficulties in marital life: A
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0954579414000315] [PMID: 25047291]
comparative study of young adults in India and America. Front
[105] Heinze JE, Cook SH, Wood EP, Dumadag AC, Zimmerman MA.
Psychol 2014; 5: 1355.
Friendship attachment style moderates the effect of adolescent
[http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2014.01355] [PMID: 25520681]
exposure to violence on emerging adult depression and anxiety
[125] Buunk AP, Park JH, Duncan LA. Cultural Variation in Parental
trajectories. J Youth Adolesc 2018; 47(1): 177-93.
Influence on Mate Choice. Cross-Cultural Res 2010; 44(1): 23-40.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10964-017-0729-x] [PMID: 28815358]
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1069397109337711]
[106] King AR, Terrance C. Best friendship qualities and mental health
[126] Dhariwal A, Connolly J. Romantic Experiences of Homeland and
symptomatology among young adults. J Adult Dev 2008; 15(1): 25-34.
Diaspora South Asian Youth: Westernizing Processes of Media and
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10804-007-9031-6]
Friends. J Res Adolesc 2013; 23(1): 45-56.
[107] Bagwell CL, Bender SE, Andreassi CL, Kinoshita TL, Montarello SA,
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1532-7795.2012.00803.x]
Muller JG. Friendship quality and perceived relationship changes
[127] Netting NS. Marital Ideoscapes in 21st-Century India: Creative
predict psychosocial adjustment in early adulthood. J Soc Pers Relat
Combinations of Love and Responsibility. J Fam Issues 2010; 31(6):
2005; 22(2): 235-54. 707-26.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0265407505050945] [http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0192513X09357555]
[108] Narr RK, Allen JP, Tan JS, Loeb EL. Close Friendship Strength and [128] Hagger MS, Rentzelas P, Chatzisarantis NLD. Effects of individualist
Broader Peer Group Desirability as Differential Predictors of Adult and collectivist group norms and choice on intrinsic motivation. Motiv
Mental Health. Child Dev 2019; 90(1): 298-313. Emot 2014; 38(2): 215-23.
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/cdev.12905] [PMID: 28832975] [http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11031-013-9373-2]
[109] Mendelson MJ, Kay AC. Positive feelings in friendship: Does [129] Janardhana N, Manjula B. Adolescents romantic relationship:
imbalance in the relationship matter? J Soc Pers Relat 2003; 20(1): dynamics of parent-child relationship from India.Maternal and child
101-16. health matters around the world. Intech Open Limited 2018; pp. P1-
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/02654075030201005] P21.
[110] Lee CYS, Goldstein SE. Loneliness, Stress, and Social Support in [130] Ganth DB. Premarital Romantic and Sexual Relationship among
Young Adulthood: Does the Source of Support Matter? J Youth Unmarried Young Adults in India-An Overview
Adolesc 2016; 45(3): 568-80. 2017.https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Barani-Kanth/publication/3
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10964-015-0395-9] [PMID: 26602564] 17330761_Premarital_Romantic_and_Sexual_Relationship_among_U
[111] Brown BB, Mory MS, Kinney D. Casting adolescent crowds in a nmarried_Young_Adults_in_India-
relational perspective: Caricature, channel, and context c. 1994. An_Overview/links/60703bcd4585150fe9944b5e/Premarital-
[112] Birkeland MS, Breivik K, Wold B. Peer acceptance protects global Romantic-and-Sexual-Relationship-among-Unmarrie
self-esteem from negative effects of low closeness to parents during [http://dx.doi.org/10.9790/0837-2206012630]
adolescence and early adulthood. J Youth Adolesc 2014; 43(1): 70-80. [131] Ganth DB, Kadhiravan S. Psychosocial determinants of romantic
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10964-013-9929-1] [PMID: 23435859] inclination among Indian youth. Interpers Int J Pers Relatsh 2017;
[113] McEWEN BS. Stress, adaptation, and disease. Allostasis and allostatic 11(1): 22-39.
load. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1998; 840(1): 33-44. [http://dx.doi.org/10.5964/ijpr.v11i1.213]
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1749-6632.1998.tb09546.x] [PMID: [132] Alexander M, Garda L, Kanade S, Jejeebhoy S, Ganatra B. Correlates
9629234] of premarital relationships among unmarried youth in Pune district,
[114] Pietromonaco PR, Powers SI. Attachment and health-related Maharashtra, India. Int Fam Plan Perspect 2007; 33(4): 150-9.
physiological stress processes. Curr Opin Psychol 2015; 1: 34-9. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1363/3315007] [PMID: 18178539]
[http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2014.12.001] [PMID: 25729755] [133] Lu P, Oh J, Leahy KE, Chopik WJ. Friendship Importance Around the
[115] Ehrlich KB, Hoyt LT, Sumner JA, McDade TW, Adam EK. Quality of World: Links to Cultural Factors, Health, and Well-Being. Front
relationships with parents and friends in adolescence predicts Psychol 2021; 11: 570839.
metabolic risk in young adulthood. Health Psychol 2015; 34(9): [http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.570839] [PMID: 33536962]

© 2022 Navaneetham and Kanth.

This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International Public License (CC-BY 4.0), a copy of which is
available at: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/legalcode. This license permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the
original author and source are credited.