A dyadic perspective on the role of need satisfaction in the relationship between perceived partner responsiveness and sleep quality

The main purpose of this study is to examine how perceived partner responsiveness (PPR), need satisfaction and sleep quality are related in romantic relationships. Data were collected from a sample of 119 heterosexual romantic partners (M-age = 32.1, 20 to 63 years-old) who were together for 5.7 years on average. The proposed model was analyzed using actor-partner interdependence model to examine the mediating role of need satisfaction on the link between PPR and sleep quality. Results indicated no direct paths from PPR to sleep quality. Significant actor effects of PPR on need satisfaction were found for both genders. Similarly, significant actor effects and women's partner effect of need satisfaction were established on sleep quality. Additionally, results yielded two significant indirect effects: Women's reports of higher PPR were linked to better sleep quality of both women and men, only in case of high need satisfaction reported by women. Findings contributed to the existing literature by presenting an alternative approach to examine PPR and sleep in a dyadic perspective through the role of need satisfaction while highlighting women's influence on men's sleep.