Persistence of Attempts to Reconcile a Terminated Romantic Relationship: A Partial Test of Relational Goal Pursuit Theory

Abstract

Drawing on Relational Goal Pursuit Theory, we predicted that the following factors would foster persistence of attempted reconciliation following the breakup of a dating or romantic relationship: (a) the rejected partner's linking of the desired relationship with more important life goals; (b) the rejected partner's rumination about the ex-partner and the former relationship; (c) the rejected partner's belief that reconciliation attempts will be successful; and (d) the rejected partner's emotional distress regarding the failure to accomplish reconciliation. Results showed strong support for the theory, with linking, rumination, and self-efficacy being particularly predictive of persistence of reconciliation attempts.

Keywords:

• Persistence
• Reconciliation
• Relationship Pursuit
• Stalking

Notes

Note. Linking, rumination, self-efficacy, emotional flooding, and persistence were all measured on 1–7 scales. Relational pursuit behaviors and severe pursuit behaviors were measured on 0–2 scales. Row means with different subscripts are significantly different at p < .05.

*p < .05. **p < .01. ***p ≤ .001.

*p < .05. **p < .01. ***p ≤ .001.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

William R. Cupach

William R. Cupach is a Professor in the School of Communication at Illinois State University.

Brian H. Spitzberg

Brian H. Spitzberg is a Professor in the School of Communication at San Diego State University.

Colleen M. Bolingbroke

Colleen M. Bolingbroke was Master's degree students at Illinois State University at the time of this study. Colleen M. Bolingbroke is now at the United Way of West Central Connecticut.

Bobbi Sue Tellitocci

Bobbi Sue Tellitocci was Master's degree students at Illinois State University at the time of this study. Bobbi Sue Tellitocci is now at Marist College.