Identity Gaps and Jealousy as Predictors of Satisfaction in Polyamorous Relationships

Abstract

ABSTRACTParticipants in the present study include individuals in at least one polyamorous relationship. Grounded in the communication theory of identity, this article introduces identity gaps into two hierarchical regression models (n = 156, n = 151) to explain communication and relational satisfaction from cognitive jealousy and communicative responses to jealousy. Results indicate that identity gaps contribute significantly to predicting both relationship satisfaction and communication satisfaction for individuals in polyamorous relationships. Implications and areas for future research are discussed.