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Commitment in same-sex relationships: A qualitative analysis of couples' conversations
Sharon Scales Rostosky1, Ellen D B Riggle, Michael G Dudley
1Department of Educational and Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, 245 Dickey Hall, 40506-0017, USA. rostosk@uky.edu
Journal of Homosexuality
|December 1, 2006
Summary
Same-sex couples define relationship commitment uniquely, considering factors beyond traditional relationship models. This study explores their lived experiences in building committed partnerships.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Relationship Studies
Background:
- Existing theories of relational commitment often generalize from heterosexual relationships.
- Same-sex couples encounter distinct challenges in establishing committed relationships.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of same-sex couples in defining and creating relational commitment.
- To expand the understanding of commitment beyond heterosexual relationship paradigms.
Main Methods:
- Employed the Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR) method.
- Analyzed transcripts from 14 same-sex couples (7 male, 7 female).
Main Results:
- Seven domains of commitment construction emerged for same-sex couples.
- Key factors included comparisons, costs, intra-couple differences, investments, values, rewards, and sexual boundaries.
Conclusions:
- Same-sex couples construct commitment through unique processes and considerations.
- Findings have implications for future research and service delivery for LGBTQ+ relationships.
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