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Full-Length Research Report

Intraindividual Variability and Empathic Accuracy for Happiness in Older Couples

Published Online:May 29, 2020https://doi.org/10.1024/1662-9647/a000233

Abstract

Abstract. Empathic accuracy involves identifying the emotions of others. Most evidence is based on younger samples, which is limiting because of well-established motivational shifts that occur in older adulthood. Here, we examine associations between fluctuations in happiness and empathic accuracy, using momentary assessments of happiness from 107 couples (Mage = 75.2) in Berlin (Germany; up to 42 assessments) and 117 couples (Mage = 71.1) in Vancouver (Canada; up to 28 assessments). Coordinated analyses show that perceivers are more accurate when they themselves have high happiness variability (Berlin, Vancouver). Target happiness variability did not moderate accuracy slopes. Follow-up analyses explore the role of partners sharing their feelings. Examining moderators of empathic pattern accuracy extends our understanding of positive socioemotional functioning in older couples.

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