The role of power in intimate relationships

The current study examined relationship power in the context of the investment model of relationship commitment (Rusbult, 1980). It was hypothesized that satisfaction with, quality of alternatives to, and investment in the relationship would mediate the relationship between power and commitment in 120 dating couples. Data were analyzed using mediation within the actor-partner interdependence model. Participants who possessed a higher level of power reported lower satisfaction and commitment and higher quality of alternatives. Furthermore, the relationship between female's power and male's commitment was mediated by male's satisfaction and the relationship between male's power and female's commitment was mediated by male's quality of alternatives. Findings are discussed within the context of the field's expanding conceptualization of power within intimate relationships.