Publication Type
Journal Article
Version
acceptedVersion
Publication Date
8-2018
Abstract
The concept of being ready for a relationship is pervasive in popular culture, but theoretical and empirical research on readiness is lacking. We offer a conceptualization of commitment readiness and provide some of the first empirical work examining readiness among single individuals—specifically how this construct shapes various aspects of relationship formation. Using data from five independent samples of individuals not involved in romantic relationships, we first establish that commitment readiness is associated with more interest in developing a close romantic relationship (Studies 1a, 1b, 2) and with active pursuit of relationship initiation (Study 2). We then test whether readiness among single individuals longitudinally predicts both the likelihood of later entering a relationship and, ultimately, how committed individuals are to a future relationship (Studies 3a, 3b, 3c). Implications of commitment readiness specifically, and perceived personal timing more generally, for the social psychology of relationships are discussed.
Keywords
Commitment, Readiness, Relationship initiation, Relationship receptivity, Romantic relationships
Discipline
Psychology | Social Psychology
Research Areas
Psychology
Publication
Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin
Volume
44
Issue
8
First Page
1242
Last Page
1257
ISSN
0146-1672
Identifier
10.1177/0146167218764668
Publisher
SAGE Publications (UK and US)
Citation
HADDEN, Benjamin W., AGNEW, Christopher R., & TAN, Kenneth.(2018). Commitment readiness and relationship formation. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 44(8), 1242-1257.
Available at: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/soss_research/2473
Copyright Owner and License
Authors
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Additional URL
https://doi.org/10.1177/0146167218764668