The Effects of Closeness and Relational Uncertainty on Support Gaps

The current study examines the influence of relational characteristics, in particular closeness and relational uncertainty, on the prevalence of the support gaps people experience with a romantic partner. Participants currently in a romantic relationship responded to a questionnaire about their relationship, a stressful event they recently experienced, and how much support they desired and received from their partner. Results indicate that closeness was positively associated with support matches and negatively associated with support deficits. Facets of relational uncertainty did not directly correspond with support gaps; however, closeness and relationship uncertainty jointly explained support deficits and surpluses.