Interaction and relationship quality in late adolescent romantic couples

This study examined the association between late adolescent romantic couple members' interaction and their overall relationship quality. Stepwise regression analyses were used to predict couple members' global self-reports of relationship quality from their own ratings of their interaction. Positive and negative behaviors, as well as patterns of interaction, were associated with relationship quality, with different patterns of association emerging for males and females. Girlfriends' global reports of relationship quality were predicted from their perceptions of their boyfriends' conflict and harmony, or the balance of supportive and conflictual behaviors in the interaction. In contrast, boyfriends' global reports of relationship quality were predicted from their perceptions of their own support and their ratings of their own willingness to accept influence from their girlfriends. Gender differences in patterns of association are discussed in light of current theories of the development of romantic and peer relationships.