Hurt Feelings in Same-Sex Friendships: An Interpersonal Script Analysis

• In Event: Perceptions of Hurtful Messages in Interpersonal Relationships: Whose Perception Matters?

Abstract

An interpersonal script analysis of hurt in same-sex friendships was conducted focusing on the temporal sequencing of hurtful events as they occur between two people. Results provided evidence of an interpersonal script for hurt. People’s reactions to hurtful behavior were clearly dependent on the expected partner response. Gender differences were found for scripts in which the person reacted to hurtful behavior by expressing anger, avoiding the partner, and saying something critical or nasty.

Authors

• Alexa Hampel, University of Texas, Austin

• James Roberts, University of Missouri, Columbia