Abstract:
The study examined the effect of interpersonal closeness and performance on affirmation within romantic relationship. One hundred and eighty participants completed measures of closeness, relationship-related self-appraisals, relationship-related partner-appraisals, and relationship events. They were classified as high or low in closeness, in study or work situafions, with upward comparison, downward comparison or control group. They were divided into twelve conditions. Participants scores were analyzed using contrast and two-way ANOVA. Results show that: 1. In study situation, high closeness partners with upward comparison rate relationship-related partner-appraisals significantly more positive than those with downward comparison (p < .01). There are no significant differences in the ratings of relationship-related self-appraisals and relationship events. In work situation, there are no significant differences in the ratings of relationship-related self-appraisals, partner-appraisals and relationship-related self-appraisals, partner-appraisals and relationship events. 2. In study situation, high closeness partners with upward comparison rate relationship-related self-appraisals, partner-appraisals and relationship events significantly more positive than control group (p < .05, p < .001, and p < .05 respectively). In work situation, there are no significant differences in the rating of relationship-related self-appraisals, partner-appraisals and relationship events. 3. In study situation, there are no significant differences in the ratings of relationship-related self-appraisals, partner-appraisals and relationship events between high closeness partners with downward comparison and control group. In work situation, high closeness partners with downward comparison rate relationship-related self-appraisals and partner-appraisals significantly more positive than control group (p < .05, and p < .01 respectively). 4. In study situation with upward comparison, high closeness partners rate relationship-related self-appraisals, partner-appraisals and relationship events significantly more positive than low closeness (p < .001, p < .001, and p < .01 respectively). In work situation with upward comparison, high closeness partners rate relationship-related partner-appraisals and relationship events significantly more positive than low closeness (p < .05, and p < .001 respectively). 5. In both study and work situations, the ratings of low closeness partners with upward comparison on relationship-related self-appraisals, partner-appraisals and relationship events do not differ significantly from downward comparison and control group. 6. In both study and work situations, high closeness partners rate relationship-related self-appraisals, partner-appraisals and relationship events significantly more positive than low closeness partners.