Romantic Love Communication: Examination of Equity and Effects on Relational, Sexual, and Communication Satisfaction
Year: 2012
Type: article
Abstract: Many couples are not satisfied in their relationshipsand are looking for ways to communicate better in order to avoid
the devastating effects of divorce. One way for couples to improve
their satisfaction is to learn how to communicate their love for
one another effectively and equitably. This dissertation identifies
the means by which individuals communicate romantic love and
explores the effect these behaviors have on relational, sexual, and
communication satisfaction using equity theory as the framework.
Through an extensive study of relevant literature, a clear
conceptualization and preliminary measurement of romantic love was
created. Three hundred heterosexual married individuals will be
surveyed through an online questionnaire. Survey instruments will
measure both the individual’s use of romantic love communication
behaviors as well as his/her perception of their partner’s use. In
addition, measures of relational equity, romantic love
communication behavior equity, marital satisfaction, sexual
satisfaction, and communication satisfaction will be included. The
dissertation offers a valuable contribution to the literature on
romantic love by providing a typology of romantic love
communication behaviors rooted in theory. In addition it will
provide a clearer understanding of the relationships between
romantic love communication behaviors, equity theory, and
relational outcomes (relational, sexual, and communication
satisfaction). If results support the idea that romantic love
communication behaviors have the potential to increase relational,
sexual, and communication satisfaction, the findings have potential
to improve the quality of marriages.
Author: Michele L. Williams
Institution: Kent State University
Language: English
Subfield: Social Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2261056207