We're better when we blend: The benefits of couple identity fusion. Issue 5 (3rd September 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Walsh, Courtney M.; Neff, Lisa A.
• Is Part Of: Self and identity. Volume 17:Issue 5(2018)
• Page Start: 587
• Page End: 603
• Publication Date: 2018-09-03
• Subjects: Close relationships -- identity -- self-concept -- relationship conflict; Self -- Periodicals; Identity (Psychology) -- Periodicals; Cognition -- Periodicals; Motivation (Psychology) -- Periodicals; 155.205
• DOI: 10.1080/15298868.2018.1430062
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1529-8868

Abstract

Abstract: When forming a relationship, romantic partners must develop a conceptualization of their self in the relationship, or an understanding of their couple identity. Drawing from the theory of identity fusion, the current study explored the implications of different types of couple identities for overcoming relationship challenges. Results demonstrated that individuals who perceived greater fusion with their partner (i.e., perceived an equal blending of the personal and partner's self in creating their unique couple identity) exhibited reduced vigilance for relationship threats and enacted more constructive coping responses to relationship conflict. Conversely, individuals who perceived an imbalanced couple identity (i.e., perceived either their own or their partner's identity as dominant in the couple identity), exhibited fewer of these pro-relationship behaviors.