Dataset for: The Moderating Role of Stress in the Relationship Between Attachment and Relationship Satisfaction Among Cohabiting Couples in the Philippines

Previous studies have suggested that cohabiting couples are at higher risk of insecure attachment and relationship dissatisfaction and the link between these variables point to various behavioral and relational patterns associated with insecure attachment orientations. Guided by the Diathesis Stress Process Model of Attachment, the present study contextualizes previous study findings by testing the moderating role of stress between attachment and relationship satisfaction. An online survey via online panel was conducted among 415 individuals in cohabiting relationships, aged 18-42, who were residing in the Greater Manila Area. Accounting for various statistical controls, hierarchical multiple regression and slopes analyses revealed that acute external stress moderated between attachment anxiety and relationship satisfaction, whereas chronic internal stress moderated between attachment avoidance and relationship satisfaction. Implications for clinical practice and future avenues for research are discussed.