Communication Satisfaction and Satisfaction with Self and Other

Abstract

This study examined the influence of topic level and relationship level on self and other as loci of emotional reactions to interactions. Findings indicate that self satisfaction was more strongly related to communication satisfaction for low topic intimacy and importance, and for the lowest level of relationship intimacy (acquaintances). On the other hand, satisfaction with other was more strongly related to communication satisfaction for high topic intimacy and importance, and higher levels of relationship intimacy (friends). Lovers and spouses, however, did not conform to this pattern. The findings, which were derived from a community sample, were compared to those of a previous study which had sampled college students.