Document Type
Dissertation
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy
Major
Education, Counseling
Date of Defense
5-18-2026
Graduate Advisor
Emily Brown, Ph.D.
Committee
Agata Freedle, Ph.D.
Susan Kashubeck-West, Ph.D.
Phillip Waalkes, Ph.D.
Abstract
Objective: Connections may exist between intimate partner relationship satisfaction outcomes and experiences of childhood trauma and discrimination among women. The majority of existing research highlights individual trauma impacting relationship satisfaction that includes military experience, childhood trauma, domestic violence, and sexual assault, yet there is a gap in research which expands on both childhood trauma and discrimination endured among women in relation to intimate partner relationship satisfaction outcomes, as they relate to intimacy and closeness and resolving conflict and arguments. The present study explored the links between childhood trauma and discrimination experienced by women and their connection in intimate partner relationship satisfaction outcomes. Method: Women who have experienced discrimination and childhood trauma and are currently in an intimate partner relationship for 6 months or more were recruited through social media, email messages, and flyers in the community. Participants completed an online questionnaire in which individuals identify the type(s) of discrimination and trauma(s) they have experienced, as well as assessing the degree of satisfaction they feel in their intimate partner relationship currently. Results: The sample consisted of 86 women. Key findings revealed that more experiences of discrimination most often related to less relationship satisfaction, while trauma was most often not connected to relationship dissatisfaction. Discrimination was found to predict relationship satisfaction and trauma was not. Discussion: Implications highlighted the importance for counselor educators and clinical supervisors to not only discuss and train students in the use of trauma-informed practices, but to additionally focus on discrimination experienced by clients and students. The limitations of the study and recommendations for future research are also shared.
Recommended Citation
Gaglio, Rachel L., "Exploring Intimate Partner Relationship Satisfaction Among Women Who Have Experienced Discrimination and Childhood Trauma" (2026). Dissertations. 1607.
https://irl.umsl.edu/dissertation/1607