The Influence of Past Relationships on Subsequent Relationships: The Role of the Self
Author(s): Gary W. Lewandowski, Jr., Dani Faith Sahner
Abstract: The The present study sought to determine whether past relationships have a significant influence on the self, and thereby influence subsequent partner choice. Specifically, it was hypothesized that inclusion ofa former partner in the self would be positively correlated to desired similarity between the former and next likely partner in terms of physical characteristics, personality traits, and hobbies/interests. Participants were 27 males and 98 females who were not currently in dating relationships and had broken up with the former partner with the last 6 months. Findings supported the hypothesis, and found that that inclusion of the former partner in the self was significantly associated with desired similarity between former partner and next likely partner in terms of physical characteristics, personality traits, and hobbies/interests. Further, this association was still evident after controlling for variables such as time since break-up, length of former relationship, current frequency of interaction, and gender. These findings support the idea that former relationships may influence subsequent relationships due to the impact of former relationships on the self.
Pages: 269-275
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