Although Instrumentality and Expressivity scores have been shown to be powerful intrapersonal predictors of reported relationship satisfaction and adjustment, conceptual models exploring the mechanisms by which Instrumentality (I) and Expressivity (E) influence intimate relationships are few. The results presented in this thesis are derived from two studies, each using survey research methods and the little-used Bem Sex Role Inventory Short-Form (BSRI-SF). Study 1 (N = 75 couples) examined several statistical and methodological issues in using the short form BSRI in couples research. Study 2 (N = 119 couples) provided a preliminary evaluation of a model in which it was proposed that the relations among Instrumentality (I), Expressivity (E), and relationship adjustment are mediated in part by interpersonal processes related to couple conflict resolution (CR) and maintenance and enhancement of intimacy (MEI). A number of gender-specific findings were obtained. The proposed model was supported using a path analytic approach comparing the direct model of IE with the mediator model. Specifically, variance in men's reported levels of dyadic adjustment covaried with their own levels of Instrumentality, Expressivity, and self-reported intimacy and conflict behaviour. Variance in women's reported levels of dyadic adjustment covaried in a complex fashion with their own and their partners' scores. Across couple-related variables (DAS, CR, and MEI), results generally supported a main effects model (i.e., significant statistical prediction from Instrumentality scores and/or Expressivity scores), but not an interactional model (Instrumentality times Expressivity). Results indicated that use of the BSRI-SF's nonconfounded Instrumentality and Expressivity subscales can be valuable in model testing in couples research. It is suggested that the short-form provides ease of interpretation compared to the controversial long-form BSRI. Gilligan's theory of gender-specific developmental tasks is proposed as a framework for understanding the gender-specific correlational patterns which emerged.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:uottawa.ca/oai:ruor.uottawa.ca:10393/4381 |
| Date | January 1997 |
| Creators | Lefebvre, Monique. |
| Contributors | Hunsley, John, |
| Publisher | University of Ottawa (Canada) |
| Source Sets | Université d’Ottawa |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Format | 306 p. |
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