The relationship between commitment, intimacy, passion, and relationship satisfaction among young adults in Malaysia

Chong, Chi Yan and Lee, Fion Wan Qi and Teoh, Yu Qin (2025) The relationship between commitment, intimacy, passion, and relationship satisfaction among young adults in Malaysia. Final Year Project, UTAR.

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Abstract

Young adults in Malaysia often face challenges in maintaining healthy romantic relationships. Despite the growing interest in romantic satisfaction, research on the love components of relationship satisfaction in this demographic is limited. Therefore, the current study aims to examine the relationship between intimacy, passion, and commitment on relationship satisfaction among young adults in Malaysia. The study was conducted using purposive sampling and a cross-sectional research design. A total of 145 participants aged 18 to 30 were recruited; however, only 83 participants remained for the final data analyses after data cleaning was performed. Questionnaires were distributed via a Qualtrics link and QR code. The instruments used were i) Relationship Assessment Scale (RAS) and ii) the Sternberg Triangular Love Scale (STLS). Before distributing the questionnaire, ethical issues were addressed to ensure proper research conduct. The questionnaire began with an informed consent page to guarantee that respondents understand that their participation is entirely voluntary and that their responses will be kept confidential. Upon obtaining their consent, they could proceed with the questionnaires. Out of the 83 participants, 74.7% were female and 25.3% were male. The majority of the participants were Chinese ethnicity with 98.8% and Malay with 1.2%. Results showed that all variables (commitment, intimacy, passion) have a significant and positive relationship with relationship satisfaction among Malaysian young adults. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between commitment and relationship satisfaction (r = .68, n = 83, p < .001), intimacy and relationship satisfaction (r = .75, n = 83, p < .001), and passion and relationship satisfaction (r = .56, n = 83, p < .001). The findings align with Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Love in explaining the role of commitment, intimacy, and passion in relationship satisfaction during emerging adulthood. Practically, the results have the potential to provide relationship education programs, improve counselling services, and support the development of healthy romantic relationships. Future research could consider adopting a longitudinal approach and a more diverse sample to enhance generalizability and understanding of how love components change over time.

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