A Prototype Analysis of Missing in a Geographically Separated Relationship: Validation, Correlates, and Implications
Date
2005
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Haverford College. Department of Psychology
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Thesis
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Award
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eng
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Haverford users only
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Abstract
The current research used a prototype analysis to study the experience of missing a partner in a geographically separated relationship. In Study 1, the prototype of missing was validated using cognitive tasks and relationship vignettes. As hypothesized, results showed more recall for central features and more false recognition for central features. Relationships including central features were also rated as experiencing more “missing” than relationship including non-central features. In Study 2, the experience of missing was looked at in a long distance relationship sample. Using an online survey, a missing scale created using its prototype, was measured in addition to commitment, loneliness, and other various relationship and personality dimensions. As hypothesized, results found a moderate correlation between missing and commitment and a small, but significant correlation between missing and loneliness. These findings validated the prototypical structure of missing and also found it to be separate from the experience of loneliness. The function of missing as a pro-relationship motivation was also discussed. Future research on the experience of missing in relation to individual and relationship differences is suggested, in addition to a focus on the nature of the separation and relationship involved.