A Script Analysis of Relational Boredom: Causes, Feelings, and Coping Strategies

Abstract

The goal of this research was to examine relational boredom using a script approach. Dating individuals (N = 99; Study 1) and married individuals from the community (N = 62; Study 2) generated causes of boredom in their relationship, associated feelings, and coping strategies. Boredom was seen as caused by a lack of novelty and stimulation and was associated with negative affect (particularly low pleasure, low arousal affect). People reported using active relationally-focused strategies to cope with boredom. Boredom scripts varied somewhat as a function of individual differences in boredom proneness and relationship satisfaction, but not gender. The findings are discussed in terms of Aron and Aron's (1986) self-expansion model and Gable and Reis's (2001) model of appetitive relationship processes.