Relational Uncertainty and Communication in On-Again/Off-Again Romantic Relationships: Assessing Changes and Patterns Across Recalled Turning Points

Abstract

The current investigation explored the association between relational uncertainty and communication quality in on-again/off-again (on-off) relationships using partners’ recalled turning points. We assessed how changes between, and patterns across, turning points were associated with communication quality. On-off partners reported on up to 10 turning points in their relationship. Changes in uncertainty between turning points were negatively associated with changes in communication. Regarding patterns, fluctuation in uncertainty across the turning points was associated with more current openness. In addition, the association between uncertainty fluctuation and current intimacy depended on the proportion of turning points that were breakups.