Relational mobility and close relationships: A socioecological approach to explain cross‐cultural differences

2017/01/26 by Mie Kito, Masaki Yuki, Robert Thomson · 1 voice
Psychology · Social Sciences · #Cultural Differences and Values #Attachment and Relationship Dynamics #Social and Intergroup Psychology

paper · doi:10.1111/pere.12174

openalex publication_date 2017/01/26 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/01

Abstract

Abstract This article reviews how behaviors and psychological tendencies in close relationships differ between cultures, and proposes a socioecological framework to understand those differences. Our review of the literature finds that paradoxically, people in individualistic cultures are more actively engaged in close relationships (e.g., higher levels of social support, self‐disclosure, intimacy, and love) than those in collectivistic cultures. From an adaptationist perspective, we argue that one reason for these differences is higher levels of relational mobility in individualistic cultures. In societies with high relational mobility, where relationships are relatively more fragile, more active engagement in close relationships helps individuals to impress potential, and retain current, partners. We emphasize the importance of examining socioecologies to better understand close relationships.

Citations

• The Interpersonal Process Model of Intimacy in Marriage: A Daily-Diary and Multilevel Modeling Approach.
• Culture and social support.
• Commitment and satisfaction in romantic associations: A test of the investment model
• Culture and the self: Implications for cognition, emotion, and motivation.
• Cultural differences in intimacy: The influence of gender-role ideology and individualism—collectivism

Discussions

• ...differences, reviews how behaviors and psychological tendencies in close relationships differ between cultures and proposes a socioecological framework to understand those differences. You can read [bsky, 0 points, 0 comments]