Communication and Courtship
Abstract
Utilizing interdependence theory, the authors argue that the unique situational features of
geographic separation affect the nature of dating partners’ talk throughout courtship. It is
predicted that the communication of long-distance dating relationship (LDDR) partners, relative
to that of geographically-close dating relationship (GCDR) partners, reflects greater intimacy,
conflict and topic avoidance, and selective positive self-presentation. Also hypothesized is that
LDDR partners engage in less discussion of important premarital topics. Offered is the
suggestion that interdependence develops in LDDRs and GCDRs based on differential
communication tendencies. The authors also speculate that LDDR partners’ apparent proclivity
for intimacy-focused interaction, conflict and topic avoidance, and positive self-presentation
might interfere with their ability to make informed decisions about relational investment.
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