An exploratory analysis of giving the benefit of the doubt in romantic relationships
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Abstract
Being able to overlook transgressions that occur during daily life is an important part of maintaining a satisfying romantic relationship (Kachadourian, Fincham, & Davilla, 2005). Additionally, in romantic relationships, there are many instances when an individual is uncertain that a transgression has occurred due to the uncertainty of the situation. It is these ambiguous situations that warrant giving one’s partner the benefit of the doubt in order to maintain (and possibly increase) relationship satisfaction (Edwards & Hendrick, 2012). The current study serves as an exploratory analysis to further validate the construct “giving the benefit of the doubt” (GBOD), as well as to demonstrate validity of the Giving the Benefit of the Doubt Scale (GBODS; Edwards & Hendrick, 2012). First, exploratory factor analyses revealed a two-factor structure of the GBODS. Using the two-factor structure for analyses, correlation analyses revealed associations in predicted directions between GBOD and interpersonal dependency, perception of positive and negative partner qualities, trust, commitment, and relationship satisfaction. Regression analyses were conducted with the above variables in order to examine the most significant predictors of Factor One and Two of the GBODS. ANOVAs revealed non-significant effects for gender and relational say/power. Implications for these findings are discussed.