Exploring the Associations between Relational Uncertainty, Jealousy about Partner's Friendships, and Jealousy Expression in Dating Relationships

Abstract

This study investigated associations between relational uncertainty, jealousy about romantic partners' friendships, and jealousy expression. Using a survey, 201 participants responded to hypothetical scenarios detailing a partner's extradyadic friendship involvement. Self, partner, and relationship uncertainty predicted sexual, power, and companionship jealousy. However, relationship uncertainty completely mediated the influences of self and partner uncertainty on jealousy. Self and partner uncertainty were directly associated with communicative responses to jealousy. Influences of relationship uncertainty on jealousy expression were mediated by sexual, power, and companionship jealousy. These results highlight the role of different forms of friendship jealousy in shaping jealousy expression.