Longitudinal effect of defensive denial on relationship instability

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Relationship Science
• Developmental Psychology

Background:

• Maladaptive communication patterns, such as defensive denial, can negatively impact romantic relationship longevity.
• Defensive denial may foster conflict-escalating behaviors, further destabilizing relationships over time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the longitudinal association between defensive denial and relationship instability.
• To examine the mediating role of conflict-escalating behaviors in this relationship.
• To explore the intergenerational transmission of defensive denial from family of origin to romantic relationships.

Main Methods:

• Longitudinal modeling using data from the Family Transitions Project.
• Analysis of self-reported and partner-reported relationship instability and conflict-escalating behaviors.
• Examination of defensive denial in romantic relationships and its link to adolescent family of origin experiences.

Main Results:

• Defensive denial significantly predicted increased relationship instability for both men and women, mediated by conflict-escalating behaviors.
• Evidence suggests that for women, defensive denial in romantic relationships may be learned from family of origin experiences.
• No significant link was found for men between adolescent family of origin denial and adult relationship denial.

Conclusions:

• Defensive denial is a key maladaptive communication style that undermines relationship stability through increased conflict.
• Intergenerational patterns of defensive denial may influence relationship dynamics, particularly for women.
• Understanding the origins of defensive denial can inform interventions aimed at improving relationship health.