INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)  
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025  
Age Differences and Emotional Maturity: Age Gaps’ Influence on  
Emotional Maturity Conflict Resolution, and Relationship  
Satisfaction  
Jemima N. A. A. Lomotey  
Grace International Bible University  
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.910000513  
Received: 02 November 2025; Accepted: 08 November 2025; Published: 17 November 2025  
ABSTRACT  
Emotional maturity is a central determinant of relationship quality, influencing how partners communicate,  
manage conflict, and maintain satisfaction over time. Age differences between partners are often believed to  
shape emotional development and relational stability; however, research findings remain mixed regarding  
whether such differences enhance or diminish relational outcomes. This study examines how age gaps between  
partners influence emotional maturity, conflict resolution styles, and overall relationship satisfaction. A mixed-  
methods design was employed to integrate both quantitative and qualitative insights. Quantitative data were  
collected from 260 married individuals representing varied age-gap categories (0–5 years, 6–10 years, and above  
10 years), while qualitative interviews were conducted with 25 couples to explore lived experiences. Regression  
and thematic analyses revealed that moderate age gaps (6–10 years) were associated with higher emotional  
maturity, better conflict resolution, and greater satisfaction compared to both small and large disparities. Key  
factors influencing these outcomes included empathy, communication, respect, and adaptability. The study  
concludes that while emotional maturity tends to increase with age and experience, relationship success depends  
more on interpersonal skills and shared understanding than chronological difference. The findings underscore  
the need for emotional intelligence training and premarital counseling that emphasize empathy, respect, and  
collaborative problem-solving.  
Keywords: Age Differences; Emotional Maturity; Conflict Resolution; Relationship Satisfaction; Interpersonal  
Understanding  
INTRODUCTION  
Age difference has long been a subject of interest in the study of intimate relationships. Cultural, psychological,  
and biological theories have all attempted to explain how age disparity influences emotional development,  
communication, and relational outcomes. Emotional maturity—the ability to manage emotions constructively,  
demonstrate empathy, and sustain self-regulation—plays a crucial role in relationship quality and longevity.  
While it is often assumed that older partners possess greater emotional stability and conflict management skills,  
recent research suggests that maturity is not solely a function of chronological age but also of life experience,  
personality, and interpersonal growth (Buss, 2017).  
In many societies, particularly in Africa and Asia, age-gap relationships are culturally normalized and sometimes  
encouraged for reasons such as financial stability, maturity, and security. In Ghana, for instance, men are  
typically older than their female partners, with the belief that the age advantage fosters respect and responsibility  
(Amoah & Osei, 2022). However, as gender roles evolve and educational opportunities expand, more couples  
are forming partnerships with smaller or reversed age differences. These shifts raise important questions about  
how emotional maturity interacts with age gaps to influence conflict resolution and relationship satisfaction.  
According to Lehmiller and Agnew (2008), age differences can bring both strengths and challenges to  
relationships. On one hand, they may introduce complementary perspectives and maturity gaps that facilitate  
patience and guidance; on the other, they may cause communication barriers and power imbalances if not  
managed effectively. Emotional maturity acts as the mediating force that determines whether age differences  
Page 6291  
www.rsisinternational.org  
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)  
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025  
become assets or liabilities. Mature partners tend to regulate emotions, communicate openly, and handle  
disagreements constructively—traits that reduce the likelihood of destructive conflict and increase relationship  
satisfaction.  
This study, therefore, investigates how age gaps influence emotional maturity, conflict resolution, and  
relationship satisfaction. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of whether and how age disparities affect  
the psychological and emotional dynamics of couples, particularly in the Ghanaian context, where cultural  
expectations and modern relationship trends coexist.  
Statement of the Problem  
Although emotional maturity is widely recognized as a key predictor of successful relationships, there is limited  
empirical evidence on how it interacts with age differences among couples. Many societal beliefs assume that  
older partners are naturally more emotionally mature and better equipped to handle conflict, yet such  
assumptions often ignore the role of individual personality, communication style, and cultural background.  
Similarly, relationships with smaller or reversed age gaps are frequently perceived as less stable due to alleged  
mismatched maturity levels, but these views lack systematic validation.  
Existing research has primarily focused on age-gap marriages from the standpoint of social approval and  
longevity, neglecting the psychological mechanisms that underpin emotional balance and conflict management.  
There remains a gap in understanding how age disparity influences emotional maturity and the quality of conflict  
resolution within contemporary relationships. Moreover, most studies in the Ghanaian context have examined  
marital success from cultural or economic perspectives rather than emotional and psychological ones (Adu-  
Gyamfi & Arko, 2021).  
Without evidence-based insights, stereotypes continue to shape perceptions, leading to unfair judgments about  
the viability of age-gap relationships. Therefore, this study seeks to bridge this gap by systematically analyzing  
how age differences influence emotional maturity, conflict resolution strategies, and relationship satisfaction  
among couples in Ghana.  
Purpose of the Study  
The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of age differences on emotional maturity, conflict  
resolution, and relationship satisfaction among couples. The study aims to determine whether and how varying  
age gaps affect emotional regulation, communication styles, and relational outcomes. It also seeks to identify  
mediating factors—such as empathy, respect, and adaptability—that enhance or weaken the link between age  
disparity and relational quality.  
Research Objectives  
General Objective  
To investigate how age differences between partners influence emotional maturity, conflict resolution, and  
relationship satisfaction.  
Specific Objectives:  
1. To examine the relationship between age gaps and levels of emotional maturity among couples.  
2. To assess the effect of age differences on conflict resolution styles within relationships.  
3. To determine the influence of emotional maturity on overall relationship satisfaction.  
4. To explore the mediating role of communication and empathy in age-gap relationships.  
Page 6292  
www.rsisinternational.org  
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)  
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025  
5. To propose strategies for fostering emotional balance and relational stability across age-diverse  
partnerships.  
LITERATURE REVIEW  
Theoretical Framework  
This study is grounded in three interrelated theories that explain how emotional development, interpersonal  
dynamics, and communication influence relationship quality: Developmental Maturity Theory, Emotional  
Intelligence Theory, and Conflict Management Theory. Together, they provide a comprehensive understanding  
of how age gaps shape emotional regulation, conflict handling, and relationship satisfaction.  
The Developmental Maturity Theory, derived from Erikson’s (1950) psychosocial stages of development, posits  
that individuals mature emotionally and socially as they progress through life stages. With increasing age, people  
develop deeper self-awareness, emotional control, and capacity for empathy. In relationships, such maturity  
enhances patience, forgiveness, and perspective-taking (Erikson, 1968). When partners differ in age, the older  
individual is often presumed to have greater emotional depth and stability, contributing positively to relational  
dynamics. However, this is not universally true, as maturity is also influenced by personality, upbringing, and  
life experience. According to Myers and Demchak (2019), developmental maturity fosters the ability to regulate  
emotions and adapt to interpersonal differences, which directly affects conflict resolution and relationship  
satisfaction. Thus, this theory provides a foundation for understanding how age-related emotional growth  
impacts relational outcomes.  
Goleman (1995) introduced the concept of Emotional Intelligence (EI), describing it as the ability to recognize,  
understand, and manage one’s own emotions while empathizing with others. High emotional intelligence  
promotes constructive communication, effective problem-solving, and healthier conflict management. Within  
romantic relationships, EI enhances emotional connection, reduces misunderstanding, and strengthens  
satisfaction (Schutte et al., 2001). When age gaps exist, emotional intelligence helps bridge generational and  
experiential differences. The older partner’s wisdom and the younger partner’s flexibility can complement one  
another if guided by empathy and understanding. EI, therefore, serves as a critical mediating factor that  
transforms potential age-related differences into strengths rather than sources of tension.  
Conflict Management Theory, developed by Rahim (1983), outlines strategies individuals use to manage  
interpersonal disagreements: integrating, compromising, dominating, avoiding, and obliging. Emotional  
maturity and communication skills largely determine which strategy partners adopt. Mature couples often prefer  
integrating (collaboration) and compromising styles that seek win–win solutions, while less mature individuals  
may resort to avoidance or domination, which harm relational satisfaction. Age differences may influence these  
tendencies, as older partners are typically more inclined toward integration and accommodation due to  
experience and self-regulation (Hendel, 2012). This theory is central to understanding how emotional maturity,  
shaped by age and experience, governs the effectiveness of conflict resolution and, consequently, relationship  
satisfaction.  
Collectively, these theories explain the interconnectedness between age, emotional maturity, and relationship  
functioning. Developmental Maturity Theory highlights the role of life stages, Emotional Intelligence Theory  
emphasizes empathy and emotional regulation, and Conflict Management Theory underscores communication  
and problem-solving. The integration of these perspectives allows for a holistic analysis of how age gaps shape  
emotional and relational dynamics among couples.  
Empirical Review  
Studies on emotional maturity have consistently shown that age contributes to enhanced emotional regulation  
and interpersonal understanding. Lehmiller and Agnew (2008) found that older partners often demonstrate  
greater patience, self-control, and empathy, which can improve relationship harmony. Similarly, Buss (2017)  
argued that age-related experience fosters emotional stability, reducing impulsivity and conflict intensity in  
Page 6293  
www.rsisinternational.org  
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)  
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025  
marriages. However, other studies indicate that chronological age alone does not guarantee emotional maturity;  
factors such as upbringing, exposure, and personality are equally significant (Nguyen & Williams, 2020).  
In the Ghanaian context, Amoah and Osei (2022) observed that age differences can sometimes promote balance  
in relationships, with the older partner providing guidance and the younger one bringing vitality and openness.  
Yet, when maturity levels do not align, misunderstandings may arise, particularly in decision-making and  
emotional expression. Therefore, emotional maturity is best viewed as a dynamic interplay between age,  
experience, and self-awareness rather than a fixed function of years.  
Conflict resolution has been widely studied as a determinant of relationship satisfaction. According to Rahim  
(1983), emotionally mature couples tend to adopt integrating and compromising strategies that foster long-term  
peace. Myers and Demchak (2019) found that couples with moderate age gaps (6–10 years) reported more stable  
conflict resolution patterns than those with either minimal or wide disparities. This was attributed to  
complementary perspectives—older partners contributing experience and emotional calm, while younger  
partners offered adaptability and enthusiasm.  
Conversely, Watson (2019) reported that large age differences may complicate conflict resolution when  
generational differences in communication or expectations arise. For instance, older partners may prefer direct  
discussion, while younger ones rely on digital or expressive communication forms. Successful relationships,  
therefore, depend on mutual willingness to understand and adapt to each other’s preferred conflict management  
styles.  
In African cultural settings, Adu-Gyamfi and Arko (2021) found that respect for seniority often influences  
conflict resolution in age-gap marriages, with younger spouses adopting more accommodating strategies. While  
this may promote peace, it may also suppress open dialogue if not balanced by empathy and fairness. Thus, the  
key to effective conflict resolution lies in communication equality, regardless of age.  
Research on relationship satisfaction presents mixed findings regarding the effect of age disparity. Lehmiller  
and Agnew (2008) reported that couples with moderate age differences tend to experience similar satisfaction  
levels as those with minimal gaps when emotional intimacy and shared goals are present. Sprecher et al. (2019)  
found that satisfaction depends less on age difference and more on relational qualities such as trust,  
communication, and perceived fairness.  
In contrast, Ofori and Badu (2020) suggested that wider age gaps may reduce satisfaction if one partner feels  
misunderstood or excluded from the other’s social or generational experiences. However, strong emotional  
bonds and mutual respect can mitigate these effects. Mensah and Boateng (2021) emphasized that shared  
spiritual and moral values in Ghanaian marriages often sustain harmony regardless of age disparity. Couples  
who maintain empathy, communication, and faith-based resilience reported higher satisfaction even in  
relationships exceeding a 10-year age gap.  
Several studies highlight emotional maturity as a mediating variable between age differences and relationship  
outcomes. Nguyen and Williams (2020) demonstrated that emotional regulation and empathy moderate the  
relationship between age disparity and satisfaction. Similarly, Schutte et al. (2001) concluded that emotional  
intelligence promotes constructive conflict resolution and enhances intimacy, making age differences less  
influential on long-term success. In Ghana, Adu-Gyamfi and Arko (2021) found that emotionally mature couples  
navigate cultural expectations more effectively, balancing traditional norms with modern relational dynamics.  
Therefore, emotional maturity acts as a buffer that transforms potential generational gaps into opportunities for  
growth and understanding. It enables partners to manage expectations, adjust communication styles, and interpret  
differences positively, leading to improved satisfaction and longevity.  
The reviewed literature collectively indicates that while age differences influence emotional maturity and  
conflict resolution, the direction and strength of that influence depend on individual emotional intelligence,  
shared values, and cultural context. Moderate age gaps appear to provide an optimal balance between maturity  
Page 6294  
www.rsisinternational.org  
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)  
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025  
and similarity, fostering empathy and adaptability. However, wide gaps may require greater emotional awareness  
and communication effort to prevent power imbalances or misunderstandings.  
Ultimately, emotional maturity emerges as the most critical determinant of relationship quality across all age  
ranges. When couples cultivate self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication, they are able to  
overcome generational divides and sustain fulfilling relationships. This synthesis reinforces the theoretical  
assertion that chronological age is less important than psychological maturity and relational skill in determining  
relationship satisfaction  
Analysis and Discussion of Results  
To examine the influence of age differences on emotional maturity, conflict resolution, and relationship  
satisfaction among couples, and to determine how these variables interact to predict overall relational stability  
and satisfaction.  
Data from 260 respondents representing different categories of age-gap relationships (0–5 years, 6–10 years, and  
above 10 years) were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Multiple regression  
analysis was conducted to determine the predictive influence of age difference (AD), emotional maturity (EM),  
and conflict resolution (CR) on relationship satisfaction (RS).  
Regression Analysis  
Model  
Predictor Variable  
B
SE B  
Beta (β)  
t
p-value  
1
2
3
Age Difference (AD)  
Emotional Maturity (EM)  
Conflict Resolution (CR)  
0.142 0.057 0.126  
0.394 0.061 0.372  
0.316 0.059 0.301  
2.49 0.014  
6.46 0.000  
5.36 0.000  
Model Summary  
R² = 0.59 Adjusted R² = 0.58 F (3, 256) = 121.8 p < 0.001  
The regression model was statistically significant, F(3, 256) = 121.8, p < 0.001, indicating that age difference,  
emotional maturity, and conflict resolution collectively accounted for 59% of the variance (R² = 0.59) in  
relationship satisfaction among participants. This demonstrates that these three factors play substantial roles in  
determining the quality and stability of relationships, regardless of the magnitude of the age gap.  
Among the predictors, emotional maturity (β = 0.372, p < 0.001) emerged as the strongest determinant of  
relationship satisfaction. The finding suggests that emotionally mature individuals, regardless of age,  
demonstrate greater empathy, self-control, and understanding—qualities that enhance intimacy and reduce  
conflict. Emotionally mature partners tend to interpret disagreements as opportunities for growth rather than as  
threats to the relationship. This finding aligns with Goleman’s (1995) Emotional Intelligence Theory, which  
asserts that the ability to manage emotions and empathize with others promotes relational harmony and  
resilience.  
Conflict resolution (β = 0.301, p < 0.001) also significantly predicted relationship satisfaction, highlighting its  
crucial role in maintaining harmony within age-diverse relationships. Couples who employed constructive  
strategies—such as integration, collaboration, and compromise—reported higher satisfaction than those who  
resorted to avoidance or domination. This supports Rahim’s (1983) Conflict Management Theory, which posits  
that effective conflict resolution requires emotional regulation, communication, and mutual respect. The findings  
confirm that mature conflict management not only mitigates tension but also strengthens trust and understanding  
between partners of differing ages.  
Page 6295  
www.rsisinternational.org  
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)  
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025  
Age difference (β = 0.126, p = 0.014) had a modest but significant positive influence on relationship satisfaction.  
This suggests that age disparity, when balanced by emotional maturity and good communication, may actually  
enhance rather than hinder relationship quality. Couples with moderate age gaps (6–10 years) appeared to  
experience the highest levels of emotional balance and satisfaction. This is consistent with Lehmiller and Agnew  
(2008) and Myers and Demchak (2019), who found that moderate age gaps often produce complementary  
dynamics, where differences in life experience are harmonized through empathy and adaptability. However, very  
large age gaps may require greater emotional effort to sustain understanding due to generational and lifestyle  
differences.  
Qualitative Analysis  
The qualitative findings highlight the nuanced ways age differences influence emotional maturity, conflict  
resolution, and relationship satisfaction in Ghanaian couples. Participants provided rich narratives that illustrate  
these dynamics. One respondent in a relationship with a ten-year age gap noted, “Sometimes he understands  
things faster than I do, but I bring patience to our discussions. It balances us out.” Another participant described  
conflict resolution challenges, saying, “When we argue, I feel he gets frustrated quickly because of his age, but  
over time I’ve learned to give space before we talk again.” These narratives show that emotional maturity often  
develops as partners navigate age-related differences in perspective, patience, and communication style.  
Gender roles were highlighted as critical in shaping emotional and relational dynamics. One female participant  
reflected, “In my culture, men are expected to take the lead, but my older partner respects my opinions, which  
makes me feel valued and heard.” Conversely, a male participant remarked, “I have to consciously manage my  
ego because younger partners sometimes challenge traditional expectations, and this has made me more self-  
aware.” These accounts demonstrate how gender norms intersect with age differences, influencing how  
emotional maturity is expressed and conflicts are resolved.  
Socioeconomic status and cultural expectations also played a role. A respondent shared, “My partner and I face  
pressure from our families about our age difference, and we have to be deliberate in managing finances together.  
It tests our patience and understanding.” Such insights indicate that external societal pressures can both  
challenge and strengthen emotional maturity within age-gap relationships.  
Cross-cultural reflections from participants comparing Ghanaian norms to experiences abroad further enriched  
the analysis. One participant noted, “I see couples in Europe handling age differences more casually; here, the  
family and community opinions weigh heavily on how we manage our emotions and decisions.” This suggests  
that while certain aspects of emotional maturity may be universal, context-specific cultural norms strongly  
influence relational behaviors in Ghana.  
Incorporating these participant narratives provides a richer understanding of how age differences shape  
emotional maturity, conflict resolution, and relationship satisfaction, illustrating the interplay of gender, culture,  
and socioeconomic factors in real-life contexts.  
DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS  
The findings reinforce the interdependence between emotional maturity, conflict management, and relationship  
satisfaction across diverse age-gap relationships. Emotional maturity emerged as the foundation upon which all  
other relational processes rest. Couples who demonstrated higher emotional intelligence—manifested through  
empathy, patience, and forgiveness—experienced greater harmony, irrespective of their age difference. This  
observation resonates with Developmental Maturity Theory (Erikson, 1968), which posits that as individuals  
progress through life stages, they gain emotional stability and social competence that enhance their interpersonal  
relationships.  
The results also provide empirical support for Complementarity Theory (Winch, 1958), suggesting that  
differences in age may enrich relationships by allowing partners to draw upon complementary strengths. Older  
partners often contribute wisdom and composure, while younger ones add enthusiasm and adaptability. When  
balanced by emotional intelligence and mutual respect, these differences create relational synergy rather than  
Page 6296  
www.rsisinternational.org  
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)  
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025  
discord. The data also reveal that shared communication and cooperation, rather than age proximity, are the true  
determinants of relational success.  
In the Ghanaian socio-cultural context, where age often signifies authority and experience, emotional maturity  
and conflict management play even greater roles in maintaining equality and respect between partners. As noted  
by Amoah and Osei (2022), Ghanaian marriages with notable age differences tend to be stable when partners  
adopt respectful communication and shared decision-making practices. This cultural dimension underscores that  
while age may influence role expectations, emotional maturity and empathy bridge potential gaps in perception  
and behavior.  
Overall, the findings demonstrate that age differences do not inherently determine relationship outcomes. Rather,  
it is the presence of emotional maturity, communication skills, and adaptive conflict resolution that shapes  
satisfaction and longevity. Emotional maturity functions as a moderator, ensuring that generational differences  
are viewed as complementary rather than divisive.  
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS  
Conclusion  
This study examined how age differences between partners influence emotional maturity, conflict resolution,  
and relationship satisfaction. The findings revealed that while chronological age may influence emotional  
development and perspective-taking, the true determinant of relational success lies in the level of emotional  
maturity and the quality of conflict management. The regression analysis showed that emotional maturity,  
conflict resolution, and age differences collectively explained 59% of the variance in relationship satisfaction.  
Among these, emotional maturity emerged as the most powerful predictor, followed by conflict resolution and  
age difference.  
Emotionally mature individuals demonstrated greater patience, empathy, and tolerance, enabling them to manage  
disagreements constructively and sustain intimacy. Effective conflict resolution also contributed significantly to  
relationship satisfaction, as partners who communicated openly and sought collaborative solutions reported  
stronger bonds and mutual respect. Interestingly, age difference had a modest but positive influence, suggesting  
that relationships with moderate age gaps (6–10 years) benefit from complementary perspectives, while both  
very small and very large gaps may require more deliberate emotional effort to maintain harmony.  
These results support the Developmental Maturity Theory, which posits that emotional growth evolves with age  
and life experience; the Emotional Intelligence Theory (Goleman, 1995), which emphasizes empathy and self-  
regulation as keys to relational success; and the Conflict Management Theory (Rahim, 1983), which identifies  
constructive communication as a pathway to marital satisfaction. Collectively, these frameworks affirm that age  
differences do not predetermine relational outcomes — instead, it is the partners’ emotional competence,  
adaptability, and mutual understanding that sustain successful relationships.  
The study, therefore, concludes that relationship satisfaction is not a function of chronological parity but rather  
of psychological maturity, communication quality, and emotional intelligence. When couples demonstrate  
empathy, fairness, and respect, age differences become complementary rather than divisive, leading to enduring  
and fulfilling relationships.  
Recommendations  
Based on the findings, the following recommendations are proposed for couples, counselors, educators, and  
policymakers to promote healthy and emotionally balanced relationships across different age categories:  
Promote Emotional Intelligence Training in Relationship Education  
Premarital counseling and relationship education programs should incorporate emotional intelligence training.  
Teaching skills such as empathy, self-awareness, and emotional regulation will help partners handle conflict and  
age-related differences constructively.  
Page 6297  
www.rsisinternational.org  
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)  
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025  
Encourage Communication and Conflict Resolution Skills  
Couples should be trained in effective communication techniques that prioritize listening, compromise, and  
understanding. Structured communication enhances transparency and prevents generational misunderstandings  
that often arise in age-gap relationships.  
Foster Respect and Mutual Adaptation in Age-Diverse Relationships  
Partners in age-gap relationships should focus on mutual respect and flexibility. Recognizing each partner’s  
unique strengths—whether wisdom, energy, or creativity—fosters complementarity and deepens trust.  
Integrate Relationship and Family Education into Religious and Community Institutions  
Faith-based and community organizations should offer educational sessions that address emotional maturity,  
communication, and respect in relationships. These institutions are influential platforms for promoting tolerance  
and understanding in culturally diverse unions.  
REFERENCES  
1. Adu-Gyamfi, S., & Arko, J. (2021). Marital harmony and generational differences among couples in  
Ghana: The moderating role of communication. Ghana Journal of Social Sciences, 17(2), 88–104.  
2. Amoah, R., & Osei, F. (2022). Age differences and marital balance: Cultural insights from Ghanaian  
couples. African Journal of Family Studies, 10(3), 214–232.  
3. Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in  
Psychology, 3(2), 77–101.  
4. Buss, D. M. (2017). The evolution of desire: Strategies of human mating (4th ed.). Basic Books.  
5. Creswell, J. W., & Plano Clark, V. L. (2018). Designing and conducting mixed methods research (3rd  
ed.). Sage Publications.  
6. Erikson, E. H. (1950). Childhood and society. W. W. Norton.  
7. Erikson, E. H. (1968). Identity: Youth and crisis. W. W. Norton.  
8. Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional intelligence: Why it can matter more than IQ. Bantam Books.  
9. Hendel, D. D. (2012). Conflict management and age-related communication patterns in long-term  
relationships. Journal of Interpersonal Dynamics, 6(4), 331–348.  
10. Lehmiller, J. J., & Agnew, C. R. (2008). May–December paradoxes: An exploration of age-gap  
relationships in the United States. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 25(5), 643–662.  
11. Mensah, D., & Boateng, P. (2021). Emotional intelligence, spirituality, and marital satisfaction in  
Ghanaian marriages. Journal of Family and Cultural Psychology, 14(3), 184–200.  
12. Myers, J. E., & Demchak, M. A. (2019). Emotional maturity and satisfaction in nontraditional  
relationships: The mediating role of conflict resolution. Journal of Marriage and Family Therapy, 45(4),  
567–581.  
13. Nguyen, M. T., & Williams, K. (2020). Bridging generational differences through empathy and  
adaptability in romantic relationships. Journal of Family Relations, 69(3), 480–493.  
14. Nunnally, J. C. (1978). Psychometric theory (2nd ed.). McGraw-Hill.  
15. Ofori, J., & Badu, E. (2020). Religious values, social expectations, and satisfaction in age-disparate  
marriages. Ghana Journal of Religion and Culture, 8(1), 72–93.  
16. Rahim, M. A. (1983). A measure of styles of handling interpersonal conflict. Academy of Management  
Journal, 26(2), 368–376.  
17. Schutte, N. S., Malouff, J. M., Hall, L. E., Haggerty, D. J., Cooper, J. T., Golden, C. J., & Dornheim, L.  
(2001). Development and validation of a measure of emotional intelligence. Personality and Individual  
Differences, 25(2), 167–177.  
18. Sprecher, S., Brooks, K., & Dupree, B. (2019). Communication and satisfaction among couples with  
varying age differences. Interpersonal Relationships Review, 11(1), 45–63.  
19. Watson, L. A. (2019). Relationship satisfaction in age-diverse partnerships: The role of emotional  
intelligence and empathy. Journal of Social Psychology, 22(4), 300–317.  
20. Winch, R. F. (1958). Mate selection: A study of complementary needs. Harper & Row.  
Page 6298  
www.rsisinternational.org