Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The present study aimed to investigate how bases of dependence—namely, quality of alternatives, and four categories of investments (past tangible, past intangible, planned tangible, and planned intangible)—influence commitment among emerging adults in romantic relationships. It is also examined whether the sense of we-ness serves as a mediator between commitment and relationship satisfaction. The study was conducted with a sample of 291 emerging adults (103 men and 188 women) residing in Türkiye, aged between 18 and 29. Participants were recruited via convenience sampling method. Data were collected using the subscales (Quality of Alternatives, Commitment, and Satisfaction) of Investment Model Scale, along with Past and Planned Investments Measure, and We-ness Questionnaire. Findings demonstrated that all variables except past tangible investments significantly predicted commitment. More specifically, lower quality of alternatives and higher investment levels (especially intangible and planned) were associated with higher levels of commitment. Furthermore, we-ness was found to significantly mediate the association between commitment and relationship satisfaction, suggesting that a stronger sense of we-ness helps explain why committed individuals experience greater satisfaction in their romantic relationships. The implications of these results were discussed with reference to prior research, and suggestions for both future studies and clinical practice were provided.
Author: S. Burcu Özgülük Üçok
Institution: TED University
Language: Turkish
Subfield: Social Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7204647096