Abstract :
The current paper proposes that relationship commitment
is a goal; and as such, is regulated by the approach
and avoidance dimensions.We suggest that two types
of commitment exist: approach commitment, the desire to
maintain and continue the relationship, and avoidance commitment,
the desire to avoid relationship dissolution. Specifically,
approach commitment is associated with a desire for
future relationship incentives and rewards; and avoidance
commitment is a desire to avoid the negative consequences
or costs of relationship dissolution. In this paper, we evaluate
previous research on relationship commitment from an
approach and avoidance goal theory perspective, and then
present an approach and avoidance commitment model and
hypotheses testable in future research.
