Relational Turbulence Theory: Explaining Variation in Subjective Experiences and Communication Within Romantic Relationships

TLDR

Relational turbulence theory identifies relational uncertainty and interdependence as key parameters shaping subjective experiences in romantic relationships. The essay extends the relational turbulence model to better explain communication in romantic relationships. The theory explains how cognitive appraisals and emotions drive communication, how biased appraisals, intense emotions, and volatile communication combine into global turbulent evaluations, and how communication can both create turbulence and build resilience, thereby influencing personal, relational, and social outcomes.

Abstract

This essay extends the relational turbulence model as a framework for understanding communication in romantic relationships. Following the relational turbulence model, relational turbulence theory identifies relational uncertainty and interdependence as parameters that shape subjective experiences, but the theory clarifies the theoretical processes underlying their distinctive effects. In addition, relational turbulence theory articulates causal processes linking cognitive appraisals and emotions to communication. Relational turbulence theory also describes how episodes characterized by biased appraisals, intense emotions, and volatile communication coalesce into global evaluations of relationships as turbulent. In turn, the theory addresses the effect of relational turbulence on personal, relational, and social outcomes. Finally, the theory explains how communication can contribute to the development of both turbulence and resilience in romantic relationships.