Coping with stress in different phases of romantic development
Nieder, T.; Seiffge-Krenke, I.
Journal of Adolescence 24(3): 297-311
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 0140-1971 PMID: 11476608 DOI: 10.1006/jado.2001.0407Document Number: 264683
The degree to which coping with stress in romantic relationships is related to relationship development was examined longitudinally in a sample of early adolescents (n=107). Repeated measures ANOVAs revealed a significant decrease in romantic stress over time, while at the same time active coping with romantic stress increased. Concurrently, the quality of romantic relationships changed towards greater intimacy and affection. The results provide some support for recent theories of a developmental sequence in romantic relationships, according to which relationships progress from a more casual initial stage towards a more committed affection phase. In addition, the study illustrates that the multiple functions romantic activity can serve at different stages of development are accompanied by various types of stressors.
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