COMMITMENT, SATISFACTION, AND EMOTIONAL MANIPULATION IN ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS: INTERCONNECTED DYNAMICS OF LOVE AND CONTROL

Abstract

Romantic relationships form the cornerstone of human intimacy, evolving across the lifespan through patterns of attachment, commitment, and emotional investment. This paper explores the interplay between commitment, relationship satisfaction, and emotional manipulation, integrating major theoretical frameworks such as Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Love, Rusbult’s Investment Model, and Interdependence Theory. While commitment and satisfaction are positively linked to relationship longevity and well-being, emotional manipulation introduces destructive cycles that erode intimacy and psychological safety. Drawing on multidisciplinary research, the paper argues that emotional manipulationoften fuelled by attachment insecurities and power imbalancesundermines satisfaction and distorts commitment, trapping individuals in emotionally dependent bonds. The study highlights the need for early detection, education, and therapeutic intervention to promote healthy relationship functioning.