Television's Influence on Emerging Adults’ Romantic Relationship Perceptions: The Role of Coercive Control, Autonomy-Promoting Behaviors, and Third-Person Effect

Media messages shape romantic relationship behaviors, particularly among emerging adults. Coercive controlling behaviors are commonly portrayed in media and studies have shown women are disproportionately affected by these behaviors. This study used a 2 × 2 experimental design, manipulating relationship behavior (autonomy-promoting or coercive control) and its framing (idealized or condemned) in TV clips. Participants reported their endorsement of these behaviors, third-person effect (TPE) perceptions, and demographics. Results showed that viewing coercive controlling behaviors, especially when condemned by the female character, increased support for autonomy-promoting behaviors. Additionally, higher media consumption was associated with stronger TPE. These findings offer insights for media literacy interventions and understanding media's role in shaping relationship norms.