A Relational Turbulence Model of Partner Responsiveness and Relationship Talk Across Cultures

Abstract

This study applies the relational turbulence model to identify characteristics of romantic relationships that predict perceptions of relationship talk across cultures. Relational uncertainty and interference from partners were examined as predictors of perceived partner responsiveness and relationship talk in South Korean and American romantic relationships. We surveyed 294 individuals from South Korea (N = 138) and the United States (N = 156) about their romantic relationship. The results of a structural equation model (SEM) indicated that (a) relational uncertainty was negatively associated with perceived partner responsiveness and enacted relationship talk, and positively associated with the threat of relationship talk; (b) interference from partners was positively associated with the perceived threat of relationship talk and enacted relationship talk; and (c) perceived partner responsiveness was negatively associated with the perceived threat of relationship talk and positively associated with the enactment of relationship talk. Cultural differences emerged in paths linking relational uncertainty with the perceived threat of relationship talk and partner interference with enacted relationship talk. The results are discussed in terms of implications for extending the relational turbulence model and for understanding the dynamics of romantic relationships across cultures.