Attributions in Close Relationships: Research and Theoretical Developments

Work on the role of attribution in close relationships is reviewed and evaluated. Evidence indicates that attributional activity is pervasive in close relationships, but particularly intensive at times of major problems or conflicts. People in close relationships appear to use attributions not only to search for causal understandings and to assign responsibility and blame, but also to communicate affect and to try to influence one another. Recent work on distressed couples and the role of attribution in such distress also is discussed. Finally, directions for future research on attribution in close relationships are suggested. These include use of multiple measures of thought and behavior over extended periods of time, increased attention to archival sources, and an emphasis upon content as well as process in relationship activity and on attributions that are interactive and complex in focus and meaning.