Self processes in interdependent relationships: Partner affirmation and the Michelangelo phenomenon

Authors: Rusbult, Caryl E.¹; Kumashiro, Madoka²; Stocker, Shevaun L.³; Kirchner, Jeffrey L.²; Finkel, Eli J.⁴; Coolsen, Michael K.²

Source: Interaction Studies, Volume 6, Number 3, 2005 , pp. 375-391(17)

Publisher: John Benjamins Publishing Company

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Abstract:

This essay reviews theory and research regarding the “Michelangelo phenomenon,“ which describes the manner in which close partners shape one another's dispositions, values, and behavioral tendencies. Individuals are more likely to exhibit movement toward their ideal selves to the degree that their partners exhibit affirming perception and behavior; exhibiting confidence in the self's capacity and enacting behaviors that elicit key features of the self's ideal. In turn, movement towards the ideal self yields enhanced personal well-being and couple well-being. We review empirical evidence regarding this phenomenon and discuss self and partner variables that contribute to the process.

Keywords: behavioral confirmation; close relationships; ideal self; interdependence; partner affirmation; personal well-being; self processes

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1075/is.6.3.05rus

Affiliations: 1: Free University at Amsterdam 2: Shippensburg University 3: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 4: Northwestern University

Publication date: 2005-01-01

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