Abstract

While individuals often engage in relational sacrifice to promote positive outcomes like connection (approach motives), they may also sacrifice for a partner to avoid negative outcomes like conflict (avoidance motives). These distinct motives for sacrifice have been repeatedly linked with divergent couple outcomes, yet little is known about the personal and relational factors which shape them. The current study addressed this gap using dyadic data from 289 mixed-gender couples to examine how self-concept clarity (SCC) predicted changes in relationship satisfaction via approach and avoidance motives for sacrifice. Participants represented diverse ethnic and sociodemographic backgrounds across all demographic regions of the United States. Using an actor-partner interdependence model for mediation (APIMeM), results indicated that the positive link between SCC and personal satisfaction was explained by a reduction in personal avoidance motives for sacrifice, and that the link between women's SCC and partner satisfaction was explained by overall changes in women's motives for sacrifice. These findings suggest that SCC may shape motives for sacrifice and thereby influence relationship satisfaction.

Degree

MS

College and Department

Family, Home, and Social Sciences; Family Life

Rights

https://lib.byu.edu/about/copyright/

Date Submitted

2026-04-21

Document Type

Thesis

Keywords

couple dynamics, relationship satisfaction, self-concept clarity, motives for sacrifice, interdependence theory

Language

english

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