Year of Award

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

Master of Arts (MA)

Degree Name

Communication Studies

Department or School/College

Department of Communication Studies

Committee Chair

Stephen Yoshimura Ph.D.

Commitee Members

Heather Voorhees Ph.D., Stephanie Ashcraft Ph.D.

Keywords

Love, relationship initiation, dating, communication, competence, personal relationships

Subject Categories

Interpersonal and Small Group Communication | Other Communication

Abstract

Initial interactions are essential to romantic relationship formation, and both parties must desire a second interaction after an initial encounter for the relationship to advance. Many studies have explored the communication styles and tactics that are effective in a person desiring a second interaction from a dating initiation scenario. However, existing research has yet to explain why some communication strategies do or do not result in second interactions. The current study seeks to examine this phenomenon further, testing the extent to which perceived partner communication competence influences a person to want to see another again after an initial interaction. In this study, 21 single, cis-gender, heterosexual college students participated in a speed-dating event, reporting on partner communication competence, partner attractiveness, and whether they would like to see the other person again after a given interaction. The results indicate that partner communication competence had no significant effect on whether someone would like to see the other again, but partner attractiveness did. The implications for understanding the process of initiating romantic relationships are discussed.

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© Copyright 2025 Grace E. Wiegand