Investigating Epistemic Mistrust as a Social-Cognitive Mechanism in the Relationship between Perceived Partner Inconsistency and Emotional Contagion in Young Adult Romantic Relationships

Abstract

The present study examined the relationship between perceived partner inconsistency, epistemic mistrust, and emotional contagion in romantic relationships among young adults. A quantitative, cross-sectional correlational design was employed with a sample of 149 participants recruited through convenience sampling. Standardized self-report measures were used to assess all variables.

Results indicated a significant positive relationship between perceived partner inconsistency and emotional contagion, as well as between epistemic mistrust and emotional contagion. However, perceived partner inconsistency was not significantly associated with epistemic mistrust. Regression analyses further showed that both perceived partner inconsistency and epistemic mistrust independently predicted emotional contagion.

Overall, the findings suggest that while partner inconsistency heightens emotional reactivity, epistemic mistrust operates as a separate social-cognitive factor influencing emotional susceptibility in relationships. The study contributes to understanding how trust and relational dynamics shape emotional experiences in contemporary romantic contexts.