Romantic relationships during COVID-19: A scoping review of early phase research

The COVID-19 pandemic deeply affected individuals in romantic relationships, with impacts upon both individual and relational well-being. The present review explored the emerging construct of dyadic resilience based on early phase pandemic research. Literature was screened between October 2022 and April 2023. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, 32 articles were identified for inclusion. Using thematic synthesis, six themes were constructed and categorized into two groups. Group one outlines “Impacts and Vulnerabilities” of the pandemic regarding: (1) Stress and Distress, (2) Conflict and Turbulence, and (3) Satisfaction and Quality. Group two identifies dyadic “Responsive Processes and Adaptations” to the pandemic, including: (4) Changing Communication Styles, (5) Building Intimacy and Closeness, and (6) Responding Creatively to Unique Circumstance. Findings demonstrate the multifaceted nature of the early pandemic, identifying that pre-existing vulnerabilities were a considerable risk factor, but that many were able to maintain their relationship quality throughout via engagement with adaptive dyadic responsive processes. This review highlights that not all of the impacts of the pandemic were negative, and that couple resilience seems to be found in many who engaged with adaptive dyadic responsive processes. • Pandemic stressors strained relationships, especially in early acute stages • Pre-existing vulnerabilities raised risk of distress and conflict • Many couples maintained stability via adaptive dyadic coping strategies • Effective stress communication and partner responsiveness supported resilience • Communication, intimacy, and creative adaptation fostered relationship quality