Commitment in friends with benefits relationships: Implications for relational and safe-sex outcomes

Laura E. Vanderdrift; Justin J. Lehmiller; Janice R. Kelly

doi:10.1111/j.1475-6811.2010.01324.x

Commitment in friends with benefits relationships: Implications for relational and safe-sex outcomes

Laura E. Vanderdrift, Justin J. Lehmiller, Janice R. Kelly

Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review

51 Scopus citations

Abstract

The present research sought to explore the antecedents and consequences of commitment in the context of friends with benefits relationships (FWBRs). Data collected from an Internet sample of participants (all of whom currently had an FWBR) revealed that these relationships do indeed uniquely combine aspects of both sexual relationships and friendships. In addition, results indicated that satisfaction, investment, and alternatives were predictive of commitment, consistent with the antecedent factors specified by the Investment Model of C. E. Rusbult (1980). Moreover, high commitment was associated with desiring a transition into a more interdependent relationship (i.e., a true romance), as well as reduced condom use during intercourse. These findings have both theoretical and practical relevance to understanding relationship transitions and safer sex practices across many different types of partnerships.

Original language	English (US)
Pages (from-to)	1-13
Number of pages	13
Journal	Personal Relationships
Volume	19
Issue number	1
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1475-6811.2010.01324.x
State	Published - Mar 2012
Externally published	Yes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Social Psychology
Anthropology
Developmental and Educational Psychology
Life-span and Life-course Studies

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10.1111/j.1475-6811.2010.01324.x

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Commitment in friends with benefits relationships: Implications for relational and safe-sex outcomes

Abstract

ASJC Scopus subject areas

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