A Longitudinal Test of Relational Turbulence Theory

Relational turbulence theory (RTT) proposes causal relationships across cognitive, emotional and communicative variables. Although many tenets of this theory have been tested individually, there has not yet been a comprehensive, predictive examination of RTT. Using structural equation modelling, thi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inJournal of relationships research Vol. 11
Main Author Stein, James B.
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Cambridge, UK Cambridge University Press 2020
Subjects
Cognition & reasoning
Communication
Couples
Data collection
Emotions
Hypotheses
Perceptions
Turbulence models
relational turbulence
interpersonal communication
uncertainty
interdependence
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Summary:Relational turbulence theory (RTT) proposes causal relationships across cognitive, emotional and communicative variables. Although many tenets of this theory have been tested individually, there has not yet been a comprehensive, predictive examination of RTT. Using structural equation modelling, this study longitudinally tested several propositions and axioms of RTT. Results are largely in line with many of RTT's predictions. Time 1 relational uncertainty predicted time 2 biased cognitions. Time 1 facilitation from a partner predicted time 2 negative emotions. Negative emotions cross-sectionally related to both the enactment and valence of relational communication episodes. Relational turbulence theory's proposed feedback loop received partial support, such that time 1 communication valence (but not engagement) predicted time 2 partner uncertainty, relationship uncertainty and partner facilitation. Results are discussed in terms of theory expansion and refinement.
ISSN:1838-0956
1838-0956
DOI:10.1017/jrr.2020.14