A model of premarital couple relationship commitment in Taiwan

Wen-Yi Wendy Shieh, Purdue University

Abstract

This study was an attempt to develop a model of premarital commitment in Taiwan based on research and theories in the United States. The sample consisted of 279 university students who were dating exclusively one partner. Relationships between commitment and cherishing yuan, traditionality, network support, back-ground similarity, value consensus, amount of self-disclosure, number of conflicts, physical attractiveness of partner, relationship involvement, relationship rewards, relationship satisfaction, alternative attractions, and difficulties of termination were tested and explored through path analyses. Out of the eighteen hypotheses proposed in the model, half of them were supported by the data. After modifications, the final model still supported six of the hypotheses. This final model suggests that relationship satisfaction and network support are the two best predictors of premarital commitment for the Taiwanese population. Other variables like relationship involvement, personal relationship rewards, and availability of alternative attractions all have strong indirect effects on commitment. Cherishing yuan, value consensus, self-disclosure, partner's physical attractiveness, and difficulties of termination with partner also help to predict commitment indirectly, but not as strong. This final model looks quite promising in explaining premarital commitment for Taiwanese people. It points out some important areas that invite further exploration. This is not a complete or perfect model, but it is the first model of premarital commitment in Taiwan. It can serve as a starting point so that more research may eventually be built upon it.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Robert, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Families & family life|Personal relationships|Sociology|Minority & ethnic groups|Sociology

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