The Role of Relational Uncertainty in Depressive Symptoms and Relationship Quality: An Actor-Partner Interdependence Model

• In Event: The Role of Relational Uncertainty in Interpersonal Relationships

Abstract

Little is known about the mechanisms that link depressive symptoms to relationship quality. We evaluate the role of relational uncertainty using reports from a community sample of couples. Depressive symptoms exerted actor effects, but not partner effects, on relationship quality and relational uncertainty. Relational uncertainty exerted actor and partner effects on relationship quality. The association between depressive symptoms and relationship quality was mediated by self, partner, and relationship uncertainty for women and self uncertainty for men.

Authors

• Leanne Knobloch, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

• Lynne Knobloch-Fedders, The Family Institute at Northwestern University