The Importance of Addressing Nonsexual Exclusivity Perceptions and Ideals in Therapy

Abstract

Disagreements about how exclusive the relationship should be are a major source of distress in couples. While much of the research on exclusivity has focused on sexual exclusivity, this study examines the role of nonsexual exclusivity ideals in 162 dating couples. It was hypothesized that the discrepancy between nonsexual exclusivity ideals and perceptions of nonsexual exclusivity in the current relationship would be significantly associated with relationship quality. Results supported this prediction; participants perceived lowered relationship quality as their nonsexual exclusivity perceptions became further away from meeting their ideals. Implications of these results for future research and clinical practice are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• exclusivity
• relationship quality
• relationship ideals
• dating

Notes

** p < .01.