Abstract

This study examined the actor-effects and partner-effects of overt narcissism as a personality factor and conflict resolution styles as an interpersonal factor on marital satisfaction among couples. Data were collected from 337 couples through a survey conducted by a research institute. Structural equation modeling and individual mediation effects were verified using the Actor-Partner Interdependence Mediation Model (APIMeM) in the AMOS 28.0 program. The results of this study are as follows: First, both husbands' and wives' extraversion showed direct self-effects on their own marital satisfaction. Additionally, husbands' overt narcissism demonstrated a direct partner-effect on wives' marital satisfaction. Second, overt narcissism in both husbands and wives showed indirect self-effects through conflict resolution styles on marital satisfaction. Higher levels of husbands' overt narcissism influenced wives' maladaptive conflict resolution styles, which in turn affected marital satisfaction for both husbands and wives. This study highlights the importance of husbands' overt narcissism and wives' conflict resolution styles as significant variables influencing marital satisfaction. It suggests that differentiated interventions considering overt narcissism traits and gender-specific characteristics could potentially enhance marital satisfaction for couples.