The Association Between Spousal Initiator Tendency and Partner Marital Satisfaction: Some Moderating Effects of Supportive Communication Values

Abstract

This study explored connections between initiator tendency (the propensity to initiate relationship discussions with spouses), value placed on supportive communication, and partner satisfaction. We predicted that supportive communication values would moderate the association between initiator tendency and partner satisfaction. Participants (60 married couples) completed measures tapping initiator style, value placed on supportive communication, and marital satisfaction. As predicted, the association between husband initiator tendency and wife marital satisfaction increased as a function of the value husbands placed on supportive communication. The association between wife initiator tendency and husband satisfaction, though positive, was not moderated by wives’ communication values.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Dr. Burleson passed away after the writing of this article, but prior to its publication. He originated the idea for the article, conducted the analyses, and led the writing. A version of this article was presented at the biennial meeting of the International Association for Relationship Research, Rethymnon, Crete, July, 2006.