Relational uncertainty and partner interference in long-distance and geographically close romantic relationships

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the extent to which geographic distance and RCCUs predict relational turbulence. Specifically, following Knobloch's (2007) relational turbulence model, I examined the extent to which relational uncertainty and partner interference mediate these associations. The sample consisted of 169 participants involved in local (n = 79) and long-distance (n= 90) romantic relationships. Participants included undergraduate students completing the survey for course or extra credit and users of online romantic relationship forums. Overall, the results suggest that distance and RCCUs do predict relational turbulence, including indirect effects through relational uncertainty (for RCCUs) and partner interference (for geographic distance). The present study extends RCCUs to the experience of relational turbulence and, more practically, may help partners and practitioners mitigate turbulence in romantic relationships