Interpersonal Social Cognition and Relationship Evaluation

Given that relationship satisfaction is ultimately a cognitive phenomenon, social cognition likely plays a critical role in determining the extent to which intimates are satisfied with their relationships. This chapter begins with a theoretical description of the cognitive processes that determine relationship satisfaction. Following from this framework, the second section reviews work suggesting there are various benefits to thinking positively about one’s relationship. Nevertheless, the third section highlights work suggesting there are important limits to these benefits, such that they depend on qualities of the two partners, their relationship, and the broader context in which that relationship is embedded. The fourth section then introduces the possibility that distinguishing between controlled and more automatic forms of social cognition may offer insights into why such limits exist. The final section concludes by suggesting various directions for future research that may offer insights into how both controlled and automatic thinking shape relationship development.