The effects of perceived problems in relationships on commitment

Abstract

Forty-five college students in summer classes in a Mid-Western university were invited to participate in a quantitative study investigating how problems in relationships affect the level of commitment to the relationship. Participants indicated specific problems present in their current relationship and the severity of the problem as well as completing a commitment scale. Results indicated that for all couples and only unmarried couples without children, infidelity and alcohol and drug issues significantly affect commitment levels. Total number of problems indicated affects commitment levels as well. When only severe problems are taken into account the number of problems significantly affects the commitment scores of unmarried couples without children, but not for all couples. Severs problems with jealousy an trust significantly affect commitment scores of all couples whereas for unmarried couples without children severe problems with alcohol and drug use, temper outbursts, physical, emotional, or verbal abuse, and trust all affect commitment scores. This data adds to the current research regarding relationship commitment.