Existential anxiety, particularly the fear of death, is a complex phenomenon influenced by psychosocial and spiritual factors. While romantic relationships and spiritual beliefs are often considered buffers against such anxiety, their interaction can produce paradoxical outcomes. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for a comprehensive view of human adaptation to mortality.
This study aimed to investigate the influence of God image and existential anxiety on partner selection and satisfaction in romantic relationships. It was hypothesized that God image would predict relationship satisfaction and mediate the link between positive personal/relational characteristics and the various facets of death anxiety.
A non-experimental, cross-sectional design was used. The sample consisted of 128 participants (107 women, 21 men), aged 18-59, all currently in a romantic relationship. Data were collected via an online survey which included the Inventory of God Image Scales, the Multidimensional Fear of Death Scale, the Relationship Satisfaction Scale, and the Partner Selection Strategies Scale.
God image dimensions significantly predicted 18.5% of the variance in relationship satisfaction (F(6, 121) = 4.568, p < .001), with a perception of God as Accepting being a strong positive predictor (β = 0.564, p < .001). Counterintuitively, mediation analysis showed that positive psychosocial factors like "Compatibility and Social Integration" were directly associated with an increased fear of the dying process (est. = 0.069, p = .009). God image dimensions served as significant mediators; for example, "Stability and Character" increased fear of premature death via the Challenge mediator while simultaneously reducing fear of the body after death via the Providence mediator.
Positive psychosocial resources can paradoxically heighten certain death-related fears, possibly by fostering a deeper awareness of mortality. Perceptions of God are key mechanisms that shape this relationship. The findings reveal the complex and sometimes contradictory nature of existential anxiety, opening new directions for research and clinical applications.