primals (worldviews) and relationships
Primals refer to people's beliefs about the world, such as whether the world is safe versus dangerous and enticing versus dull. In a rigorous multi-method study, we are examining the implications for interpersonal relationships, including romantic relationships, coworker relationships, and friendships. For instance, do primals shape how people perceive these relationships, and the behaviors they enact toward their relationship partners?
the multidimensional need to belong
It is well established that people have a need to belong, but that they also vary in the importance they place on belonging. The Interpersonal Relationships Lab is currently developing a multidimensional assessment of the need to belong, and our findings suggest diverging implications of the need to belong for well-being and relationships, depending on which dimension the person emphasizes. We are now conducting longitudinal research to examine the implications of the multiple dimensions of belongingness needs for well-being and relationships.
pursuing social acceptance
We are examining the impact of pursuing social acceptance for close relationships and psychological well-being. Some of our recent findings suggest that people who pursue social acceptance typically behave in ways that maintain satisfying relationships and are motivated to support their partners' welfare. We are also interested in the contexts and belief systems that can result in the pursuit of social acceptance instead having negative effects on relationships.
loneliness and relationships
How does loneliness shape people's perceptions of their close relationships, their memories of their relationships, and their visions of the future? Do these effects of loneliness on social cognition impact relationship quality, relationship partners, and future loneliness? Our initial findings suggest that loneliness is an important source of bias in the way people perceive their social worlds.
|
relationship interventions
Positive relationship expectations are generally good for romantic relationship well-being. However, if expectations get unrealistically rigid and perfectionistic, they could reduce relationship quality. We are developing and testing a portable, simple, and durable intervention that simultaneously improves people’s general relationship optimism and reduces perfectionistic standards about their relationships.
why do "weak ties" seem so powerful?
Generally, relationships research focuses on interactions between close friends, family members, and romantic partners. But research on "weak tie" interactions has demonstrated that people experience a boost to their well-being and belonging when they interact with strangers and acquaintances. In this research, we examine some of the underlying mechanisms that might explain why these interactions have these surprising benefits.