Ameliorating the Adverse Consequences of Verbal Aggression: The Buffering Effect of Esteem Support on Personal and Relational Outcomes

This study’s primary goal was to examine the mitigating effects of the quantity and quality of received esteem support after experiencing verbal aggression. Seventy-one heterosexual romantic couples (142 students) completed measures assessing verbal aggression, esteem support, mental health, and relationship satisfaction. Results documented the negative personal and relational consequences of verbal aggression; however, the quantity and quality of esteem support buffered the consequences of verbal aggression. The findings indicated that quantity and quality of support are separate dimensions of supportive interactions that yield differential outcomes, especially for females.