Work

Just Not That Into You: Experiences of Indifference Toward a Romantic Partner

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Theoretical work has proposed that people can have four different patterns of interpersonal evaluations: mostly positive, mostly negative, ambivalent (both positive and negative), and indifferent (neither positive nor negative). Notably, indifference has been largely overlooked by empirical research, despite growing evidence that indifferent feelings can occur in romantic relationships. To address this gap, we examined the associations of feelings of indifference toward one’s romantic partner with relationship and personal well-being across four studies ( N = 2,490), using cross-sectional and longitudinal data from couples and individuals in relationships. To do so, we developed the Subjective Interpersonal Indifference Scale and established it as a valid and reliable measure to assess this evaluation. Our findings showed that indifference toward a romantic partner is associated with lower relationship and personal well-being, both concurrently and longitudinally. Underlying these associations were higher feelings of boredom in the relationship, higher desire for attractive alternatives, and lower intimacy.

Source: Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin

DOI: 10.1177/01461672251410278

Authors: Mirna Đurić, Francesca Righetti, Giulia Zoppolat, Iris K. Schneider

Institutions: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Cologne, Technische Universität Dresden

Language: English

Topic: Attachment and Relationship Dynamics

Subfield: Social Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,900

Funder: Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek