Romantic relationship involvement and psychological well-being among urban African American adolescents

Urban African American youth are at elevated risk for mental health disparities, although there is substantial individual variability in functioning. This study examined the impact of adolescent romantic relationship involvement on psychological well-being. We also examined the potential moderating effects of ethnic identity and quality of relationships (peers, boy/girlfriend, siblings, and parents). Participants (N=101; ages 14-18) completed self-report measures during school hours. Linear regression and moderation analyses were conducted. The intensity of daily hassles was found to significantly predict psychological well-being. Cumulative romantic experience was found to be more predictive of greater psychological well-being as compared to current romantic involvement. Daily hassles and quality of relationships did not significantly impact romantic relationship involvement and psychological well-being, but ethnic identity public regard and private regard subscales exhibited significant results. The current findings highlight the importance of exploring potential mechanisms and individual differences, as well as interventions promoting healthy romantic relationship involvement.