Linguistic trends in the behavioral interaction of couples transitioning to parenthood (2011)

Undergraduate: Fernanda Rossi

Faculty Advisor: Martha Cox
Department: Psychology & Neuroscience

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Previous studies have employed a novel text analysis methodology to examine the linguistic patterns of romantic couples and have found robust associations of pronoun usage with relationship quality and satisfaction. To better understand relationship functioning of partners undergoing an important transitional event, this study investigated links between use of the pronouns "I", "we", and "you" and self-reported relationship instability in the behavioral interactions of 314 couples living in rural communities and transitioning to parenthood. The sample also included couples reporting economical disadvantages and intimate partner violence. Bivariate correlations found that a greater use of the pronoun "you" and a lower use of the pronoun "we" were significantly associated with higher levels of self-reported relationship instability. However, results did not support the hypotheses predicting a correlation between the frequency of "I" and instability as moderated by observed conflict behavior and a gender difference in use of "we". Findings provide insight into relationship functioning at the transition to parenthood and may have import for marital/relationship interventions.