Abstract
In the early 1980s, three studies had found that vocational similarity between romantic partners was significantly associated with couple adjustment. However, given that these studies had important methodological and statistical limitations that compromised their validity, the contribution of vocational similarity to couple functioning needs to be further explored. This study aimed to examine the potential mechanisms explaining vocational similarity within couples and the extent to which vocational similarity contributes to couple functioning, using two similarity indices: The C index and the profile similarity correlation (PSC). A sample of 104 cohabiting couples was recruited and completed online questionnaires. Results showed that vocational similarity between partners was low to moderate and was mainly explained by mating preferences. Moreover, higher vocational similarity was significantly associated with greater couple adjustment and relational stability, especially when partners were similar on the Artistic or Enterprising type. The PSC was a stronger predictor of couple adjustment and relational stability than the C index. Sharing similar vocational interests and competencies seems to help in creating and maintaining well-adjusted romantic relationships.
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Notes
In this study, high consistency means that the two highest personality types are adjacent types or match the individual’s job title and that there is a high difference between an individual’s highest and lowest scores on the six personality types.
A Holland code corresponds to the three letters (i.e., R, I, A, S, E, C) of an individual’s three highest vocational personality types.
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Mayrand, K., Sabourin, S. & Savard, C. Vocational Personality in Romantic Relationships: How Vocational Similarity Contributes to Couple Functioning. Contemp Fam Ther 45, 172–185 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-021-09620-7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-021-09620-7