Document Type

Article

Publication Title

The Northwest Journal of Communication

Publisher

Northwest Communication Association

Publication Date

Spring 2022

Volume

50

Issue

1

Abstract

This study examined the extent to which maintaining ambivalent relationships with specific types of relationship maintenance behaviors relates to states of psychological distress and well-being. Survey data from 206 participants indicated that ambivalence toward a relationship partner associated with increased negative affect, and although ambivalence by itself did not relate to any specific relational maintenance behavior, the reported use of positivity to maintain such relationships inversely related to levels of negative affect and depression, whereas the use of openness related to increased levels of negative affect, increased depression, and reduced levels of overall life satisfaction. The results carry implications for understanding the experience of actively maintaining relationships with people who are simultaneously helpful and upsetting.

Keywords

Ambivalent relationships, ambivalence, interpersonal relationships, interpersonal communication, relationship maintenance, psychological wellbeing, depression symptoms, emotions, affect, life satisfaction

Comments

Posted with permission from the publisher.

Rights

© 2022 Northwest Journal of Communication

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