Predicting satisfaction and commitment in dating relationships from communication openness, reciprocity, trust, and touch
by Friesell, Laura B., M.A., UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING, 2008, 61 pages; 1460227

Abstract:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships of communication openness, reciprocity, trust, and touch to satisfaction and commitment among college students in dating relationships at the University of Wyoming. A convenience sample of 214 (N = 214) students participated in this study. Students who identified themselves as currently in a dating relationship voluntarily filled out a questionnaire consisting of self-report instruments in the classroom. Results indicated that openness, reciprocity, trust, and touch, were significantly and positively related to satisfaction and commitment in dating relationships. A combination of these variables explained 68% of the variance in satisfaction and 43% of the variance in commitment. Reciprocity and trust were the top two predictors of satisfaction and commitment in dating relationships. Findings supported the social exchange theory of Cook (1987), the interdependence theories of Rusbult (1983), and the social penetration theory of Altman and Taylor (1973) in that people who experienced higher levels of reciprocity and trust in their dating relationships were more satisfied and committed to their relationship than those who had relatively less degrees of reciprocity and trust.
 
AdviserSandy Hsu
SchoolUNIVERSITY OF WYOMING
SourceMAI/ 47-03, p. , Mar 2009
Source TypeThesis
SubjectsMass communication
Publication Number1460227
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