The Relationship Between Certainty in Mentalization and Marital Intimacy with the Mediating Role of Emotional Co-regulation

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD Candidate in Clinical Psychology, Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Introduction and Objective: The quality of marital relationships plays a crucial role in the psychological well-being and life satisfaction of couples. Previous research has indicated that mentalization and emotional co-regulation can enhance marital intimacy. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of certainty in mentalization on marital intimacy and the mediating role of emotional co-regulation in this process.
Research Methodology: This applied research adopts a descriptive-correlational design. The statistical population consisted of 250 couples residing in Tehran with at least two years of marital life. Sampling was conducted using purposive and convenience methods. Data collection instruments included the Certainty About Mental States Questionnaire (CAMSQ), the Marital Intimacy Questionnaire, and the Emotional Co-Regulation Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation tests, and structural equation modeling based on partial least squares (PLS-SEM). The constructs' validity and reliability were assessed through factor loadings, Cronbach’s alpha, composite reliability, average variance extracted (AVE), and discriminant validity.
Findings: Structural analysis revealed that mentalization certainty has a significant and positive direct effect on marital intimacy (p < 0.001), accounting for 53% of the variance in marital intimacy through the model’s constructs. Additionally, mentalization exhibits a strong and positive effect on emotional co-regulation (p < 0.001), which, in turn, has a significant and positive effect on marital intimacy (p < 0.001). The indirect effect of mentalization on marital intimacy through emotional co-regulation was also significant (p < 0.001), confirming the mediating role of this construct.
Conclusion: The findings indicate that mentalization and emotional co-regulation play a pivotal role in enhancing marital intimacy. Improving couples’ mentalization abilities and emotional co-regulation skills can significantly enhance the quality of marital relationships. Therefore, incorporating cognitive and emotional constructs into couple education and psychotherapy programs is essential.

Keywords

Clinical Psychology Studies
Volume 17, Issue 62
March 2026
Pages 10-22

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