Observation of couple interactions: Alexithymia and communication behaviors

Alexithymia is conceptualized as a deficit of the cognitive aspect of an emotional response. Alexithymia has been associated with various relational difficulties, but few studies have investigated couple relationships. The present study addresses the imperative need for the advancement of knowledge regarding the impact of alexithymia on couple relationships and, more specifically, on communication behaviors. One hundred and fifty participants (75 couples) completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) and their interactions in the laboratory were coded using the Interactional Dimensions Coding System (IDCS). Actor–partner effects were investigated using Multi-level analyses. For women, no relationship was found between self-alexithymia and communication behaviors for self or partner. For men, alexithymia was found to be associated with their own hostility, but also with their partner’s hostility, withdrawal and communication skills. The results are discussed through a social learning perspective.

► Dyadic data analyzed using Actor–Partner Interdependence Model (APIM).
► Men’s Difficulty Identifying Feelings (DIF) is related with their own hostility.
► Men’s DIF is associated with their partner’s hostility and withdrawal.
► Men’s Difficulty Describing Feelings (DDF) is related with their own hostility.
► Men’s hostility mediates the relation between their DIF and partner’s hostility.