Love Styles and Communication in Romantic Relationships: Communication of Forgiveness, Relational Repair, and Termination Strategies after Transgressions

• In Event: Top Four Papers in Interpersonal Communication

Abstract

This study examined the role of love styles in disrupted relationships. Data were collected twice from 207 individuals who reported on their love styles at Time 1. At Time 2, participants reported on a transgression that had occurred since Time 1, and transgression severity, communication of forgiveness, relational repair strategies, and anticipated termination strategies. Findings indicate that several Time 1 love styles were correlated with nonverbal forgiveness, active relational repair, and all five disengagement strategies.

Authors

• Megan Dillow, West Virginia University

• Carrie Delane Kennedy-Lightsey, Indiana University-Purdue University, Fort Wayne

• Craig Fowler, California State University, Fresno