The role of network support and interference in romantic relationship satisfaction: a test of social exchange theory

Abstract

This study utilized social exchange theory to examine the associations between the profit (support - interference) from parent/best friend, best friend alternatives, and romantic quality (satisfaction, love). The respondents (n = 177 females) completed a questionnaire packet to assess each of the factors. The results indicated that network profit had no significant relation to romantic relationship satisfaction. Further analyses revealed that alternatives and satisfaction with the best friend moderated the relationship between profit from the parent and love for the romantic partner. Overall, these findings indicated that the relationship with a best fi-iend provides a context for the strength of association between parent profit and romantic quality. This study also highlighted the utility of social exchange theory in studying romantic relationships.