Using Event Centrality to Predict Depressive Symptoms after a Romantic Conflict: A Prospective Design

Summary Using cross‐sectional analyses, event centrality has been shown to be related to a number of poor psychological outcomes, including depressive symptoms and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. In the current study, we examined the ability of event centrality of a recent conflict in or breakup of a romantic relationship to prospectively predict depressive symptoms. Replicating previous findings, ratings of event centrality to a recent romantic conflict or breakup were significantly associated with depressive symptoms and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms at Time 1. These relationships remained significant after controlling for closure and perceived insight. In addition, Time 1 event centrality prospectively predicted Time 2 depressive symptoms, particularly for participants who were split from their romantic partners at Time 2. This prediction remained significant after controlling for Time 1 depressive symptoms. The results of the study suggest that levels of event centrality for romantic conflicts prospectively predict subsequent mental health outcomes.