Fluctuations in Commitment Over Time and Relationship Outcomes

Fluctuations in self-reported commitment (dedication) to a romantic relationship were examined among adults in well-established, but mostly unmarried, opposite sex relationships (N = 616) over a period of 3 years, and the associations between individuals' own dedication fluctuations and relationship outcomes at a later time point were analyzed. Greater fluctuations in dedication were correlated with poorer relationship adjustment and more dissolution consideration; however, after controlling for individuals' initial levels and linear changes in dedication, fluctuations in dedication were associated with only dissolution consideration. Detrimental effects of fluctuations in dedication were strongest for individuals who reported higher levels of initial dedication. Individual-level fluctuations in dedication did not predict the likelihood of breaking up within the next year. These results demonstrate that fluctuations in commitment may be relevant for some relationship outcomes, while being less salient than its overall level and general trajectory over time for other outcomes. The current study differs from prior work by focusing on individuals in established relationships, and highlights the importance of longitudinal studies of commitment in relationships at all stages.