Abstract:

Initiating romantic intimacy at emerging adulthood: Is it intimacy or isolation? This study examines the association between the markers of starting romantic intimacy, gender and loneliness. A total of 216 individuals (110 female and 106 male) completed the UCLA and Markers of Starting Romantic Intimacy Scale. Step-wise regression analysis method is used in order to investigate the relationship between loneliness and markers of starting romantic intimacy, and also t-test is used for gender differences on markers of starting romantic intimacy. Regression analysis shows that self perception is the most important predictors of loneliness. There are also gender differences for using starting romantic intimacy markers. Results are discussed with respect to emerging adulthood, gender and cultural factors.

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