Should I Stay or Go? Examining Indicators of Relationship Commitment in Aggressive Relationships

ABSTRACT

The research on the sustainability of aggressive relationships has yet to investigate the way the appraisal process to “settle” (satisfice) or to seek the best option (maximize) in our relationships affects commitment. The purpose of this study was to examine how those who are in aggressive relationships balance relationship commitment with the tendency to satisfice or maximize. Results indicate that satisficing and structural constraints were strongly associated with relationship commitment within aggressive relationships. Implications for practitioners with an emphasis on safety, the gendered nature of power in relational decision making, and various contextual factors are explored.

KEYWORDS:

• Relationship commitment
• aggressive relationships
• satisficing
• relational decision making