Broadening the investment model: An intensive longitudinal study on attachment and perceived partner responsiveness in commitment dynamics. (August 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Segal, Noam; Fraley, R. Chris
• Is Part Of: Journal of social and personal relationships. Volume 33:Number 5(2016)
• Page Start: 581
• Page End: 599
• Publication Date: 2016-08
• Subjects: Attachment style -- commitment -- interpersonal relationships -- investment model -- perceived partner responsiveness; Interpersonal relations -- Periodicals; Social interaction -- Periodicals; 302.05
• DOI: 10.1177/0265407515584493
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0265-4075

Abstract

The investment model is one of the most influential theoretical frameworks for understanding commitment in close relationships. Nonetheless, few studies have examined commitment dynamics using within-persons designs. In addition, there have been few attempts to examine potential antecedents of investment dynamics. The current research attempts to integrate the investment model with contemporary perspectives on attachment and perceived partner responsiveness by examining relationship dynamics within and between persons in a yearlong, intensive longitudinal design. We found that across levels of analysis, perceived partner responsiveness shaped investment model variables which, in turn, shaped commitment. We also found that individual differences in attachment moderated some of these dynamics, such that people who were insecurely attached were less likely than others to perceive their partner as responsive. We suggest taking a more integrationist approach to close relationship research and explore romantic relationship dynamics on the within-person level.