Document Type

Paper- Restricted to Campus Access

Publication Date

4-24-2024

Faculty Mentor

Brent Mattingly

Abstract

This study analyzes how the fear of being single (FOBS) and commitment amplification interact with various relationship factors, including self-concept clarity and relationship-interdependent self-construal. Commitment amplification is a novel construct that describes the extent to which individuals desire to enhance commitment in romantic relationships. The fear of being single involves anxiety regarding the experience of being without a romantic partner. This national, self-report study attempted to replicate previous findings, specifically the FOBS operating as a moderator between commitment levels and commitment amplification, but these findings were not replicated. However, several important associations explaining relationship processes were identified. For instance, commitment amplification was found to be significantly correlated to partner fit. In exploring potential explanations for this relationship, a significant mediation was discovered. Relational inter-dependent self-construal (RISC), or the tendency to think of oneself in terms of relationships with close others, is a significant mediator between partner fit and commitment amplification. Another important finding uncovered was the association between self-concept clarity and the FOBS. Self-concept clarity refers to the extent to which self-beliefs are clearly and confidently defined, consistent, and stable. This finding illustrates that the more one is afraid of being single, the more confused they are with their identity.

Comments

Presented as part of the Ursinus College Celebration of Student Achievement (CoSA) held April 24, 2024.

The downloadable file is a poster presentation.

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