The influence of self-criticism and relationship closeness on peer-reported relationship need satisfaction

Abstract

This study examined the association between self-criticism and the fulfillment of psychological needs. Informed by Self-Determination Theory, we tested the influence of participant self-criticism on the satisfaction of autonomy, relatedness, and competence needs among their peers. We also investigated whether the influence of relationship closeness on peer-reported need satisfaction was adversely influenced by self-criticism. We hypothesized that self-criticism would be associated with reduced peer-reported relationship need satisfaction and self-criticism would attenuate the relationship between closeness and need satisfaction variables. The study design was cross-sectional and included reports from 105 participants recruited from the community and at least one peer of their choosing (N = 174). Results indicated that self-criticism did not directly influence peer-reported relationship need satisfaction in any domain. However, associations between peer-reported relationship closeness and satisfaction of (a) overall needs and (b) relatedness needs were attenuated among highly self-critical participants. Additionally, self-criticism was associated with lower peer-reported relationship closeness. Results suggest that close relationship partners of highly self-critical individuals may not experience optimal psychological need satisfaction, particularly for relatedness needs, which may contextualize prior findings of reduced social support among highly self-critical individuals. Clinical implications and future directions are discussed.