The Prototype of Indicators of a Responsive Partner Shapes Information Processing: A False Recognition Study

ABSTRACT

When judging whether a relationship partner can be counted on to “be there” when needed, people may draw upon knowledge structures to process relevant information. We examined one such knowledge structure using the prototype methodology: indicators of a partner who is likely to be there when needed. In the first study (N = 91), the structure, content, and reliability of the prototype of indicators were examined. Then, using a false recognition study (N = 77), we demonstrated that once activated, the prototype of indicators of a partner who is likely to be there when needed affects information processing. Thus, the prototype of indicators may shape how people process support-relevant information in everyday life, affecting relationship outcomes. Using this knowledge structure may help a person process relevant information quickly and with cognitive economy. However, it may also lead to biases in judgments in certain situations.

Keywords:

• attachment
• close relationships
• couple relationships
• false recognition
• information processing
• knowledge
• prototype
• responsiveness
• trust

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Bulent Turan

Bulent Turan is affiliated with the Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham.