Does the Buffer Effect of Approach Commitment Occur in Long-Distance Dating Relationships?

Abstract

Approach commitment has a buffer effect on the detrimental effects of avoidance commitment. In this study, we examined whether this buffer effect occurs in both long-distance dating relationships (LDDR) and geographically proximal dating relationships (GCDR). There were 46 participants who were in LDDR and 112 who were in GCDR. Result revealed no difference in the buffer effect on relationship satisfaction between LDDR and GCDR. In contrast, the buffer effect on relationship constraint was different between LDDR and GCDR, and it did not occur in LDDR. These results suggested the process that maintains relationship quality was different between LDDR and GCDR.