Gender Identity and the Development of Romantic Relationships in Adolescence

Abstract

Gender is obviously a key component for understanding romantic relationships in adolescence. If we listen to the narratives of high school seniors describing particular romantic relationships, our assumptions about expected sex-role-appropriate behavior or constructions may be violated or confirmed. Person 1: “Um, we're both very easygoing. Um, we like a lot of affection. Um, not like public affection, but um, just knowing that we, we care for each other. Um, uh, it doesn't even have to be physical affection, just any type. We like cuddling with each other. Um, we enjoy going out and doing things with each other and each other's friends. … We enjoy high action things together. Um, pretty much … we have a very open relationship, and we can talk about anything.” Person 2: “I think after a while like, [person] following me around and wanting to be with me all the time, and maybe the fact that I had a lot to say and had the power … I'd, just like, I don't know, I still think like that. I don't know why but [person] … was getting too serious by following me around all the time and, you know, wanting to spend every minute of the day.