Jealousy Evocation: Understanding Commitment, Satisfaction, and Uncertainty as Predictors of Jealousy-Evoking Behaviors

Author: Pytlak Marissa A.   Zerega Laura M.   Houser Marian L.  

Publisher: Routledge Ltd

E-ISSN: 1746-4102|63|3|310-328

ISSN: 0146-3373

Source: Communication Quarterly, Vol.63, Iss.3, 2015-05, pp. : 310-328

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Abstract

Jealousy is considered a source of negative experiences within romantic relationships. However, recent research has identified jealousy evocation as a maintenance strategy. Although past research describes how jealousy is communicated, scholars have yet to determine factors that motivate partners to intentionally evoke jealousy. The present study investigates how uncertainty, commitment, and satisfaction predict jealousy-evoking behaviors. Participants included 375 individuals in romantic relationships. Results indicated perceived partner commitment and jealousy-evoking behaviors are inversely related with commitment as the key predictor of jealousy evocation. Framed by Rusbult's investment model, results further advance the notion of jealousy evocation for relational maintenance.