(Dis)similarity in impulsivity and marital satisfaction: A comparison of volatility, compatibility, and incompatibility hypotheses

• (Dis)similarity on impulsivity is used to predict relationship functioning.
• Mixed effect polynomial regression and response surface analysis are used.
• “Matching” on disinhibition leads to greater satisfaction than “mismatching.”
• Negative partner behavior and perceived partner responsiveness mediate.
• Results differ for inattention, cognitive inflexibility, and working memory.

Impulsivity is negatively associated with relationship satisfaction, but whether relationship functioning is harmed or helped when both partners are high in impulsivity is unclear. The influence of impulsivity might be exacerbated (the Volatility Hypothesis) or reversed (the Compatibility Hypothesis). Alternatively, discrepancies in impulsivity might be particularly problematic (the Incompatibility Hypothesis). Behavioral and self-report measures of impulsivity were collected from a community sample of couples. Mixed effect polynomial regressions with response surface analysis provide evidence in favor of both the Compatibility Hypothesis and the Incompatibility Hypothesis, but not the Volatility Hypothesis. Mediation analyses suggest results for satisfaction are driven by perceptions of the partner’s negative behavior and responsiveness. Implications for the study of both impulsivity and relationship functioning are discussed.