Date of Award
5-2014
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Laura May
Abstract
In the context of romantic relationships, risk regulation refers to one’s constant struggle to balance connecting with one’s partner and protecting oneself from rejection (Murray, Holmes, & Collins, 2006). As previous research failed to directly assess the interrelationships between risk regulation, self-esteem, attachment style, and self-monitoring, the present study sought to determine how these constructs interconnect to affect patterns of connection and protection in romantic relationships. Results indicated that high and low self-monitors differ in levels of connection and protection in romantic relationships, specifically in terms of need to belong, and relationship anxiety. Attachment style also affected connection and protection patterns; specifically, preoccupied attachment was related to relationship anxiety, dependency, and need to belong, while dismissing attachment was related to relationship avoidance. Similarly, various combinations of attachment style, self-esteem, and self-monitoring predicted both connection factors (need to belong, dependency, and commitment) and protection factors (relationship anxiety and relationship avoidance).
Recommended Citation
Joyce, Brittany A., "Matters of the Heart?: The Role of Risk Regulation, Attachment Style, Self-Monitoring and Self-Esteem in Romantic Relationships" (2014). USC Aiken Psychology Theses. 4.
https://scholarcommons.sc.edu/aiken_psychology_theses/4