Abstract
A large body of research has been devoted to the study of family-of-origin (FOO) experience influences on future relationship
outcomes and processes. In addition, substantial information exists regarding the role relationship attributions play in connection
with relationship quality and stability. Yet, limited information has been forthcoming regarding how the FOO experience has
an influence on attributions made in romantic relationships. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to assess the
impact of the FOO experience on attributions made about one’s own communication and personality variables, as well as the
communication and personality variables of one’s partner from a sample of individuals who had completed the RELATionship Evaluation (N = 6,649). Results show evidence of a relationship between the FOO experience and the attributions made about oneself and
one’s partner. Results were particularly pronounced for the communication variables. Gender differences also were found. The
utility of study findings for couple and family researchers and practitioners is discussed.
outcomes and processes. In addition, substantial information exists regarding the role relationship attributions play in connection
with relationship quality and stability. Yet, limited information has been forthcoming regarding how the FOO experience has
an influence on attributions made in romantic relationships. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to assess the
impact of the FOO experience on attributions made about one’s own communication and personality variables, as well as the
communication and personality variables of one’s partner from a sample of individuals who had completed the RELATionship Evaluation (N = 6,649). Results show evidence of a relationship between the FOO experience and the attributions made about oneself and
one’s partner. Results were particularly pronounced for the communication variables. Gender differences also were found. The
utility of study findings for couple and family researchers and practitioners is discussed.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-20
- DOI 10.1007/s10591-011-9163-5
- Authors
- Brandt C. Gardner, Department of Human Development and Family Science, Oklahoma State University, 320 HES, Stillwater, OK 74078-6122, USA
- Dean M. Busby, Department of Marriage, Family and Human Development, Brigham Young University, 2086C JFSB, Provo, UT 84602, USA
- Brandon K. Burr, Department of Child Development and Family Living, Stephen F. Austin State University, P.O. Box 13014, SFA Station, Nacogdoches, TX 75962, USA
- Sarah E. Lyon, School of Family Studies and Human Services, Kansas State University, 303 Justin Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506-1403, USA
- Journal Contemporary Family Therapy
- Online ISSN 1573-3335
- Print ISSN 0892-2764