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The value of monogamy in emerging adulthood: A gendered perspective

Suffolk University

Krisanne Bursik

Suffolk University, kbursik{at}suffolk.edu

Gender and gender role differences in the valuing of monogamy were examined using a sample of emerging adults currently in heterosexual dating relationships. Monogamy attitudes were measured on four dimensions: valuing emotional monogamy, valuing sexual monogamy, perceptions of monogamy as relationship-enhancing, and perceptions of monogamy as a sacrifice. Gender differences emerged, with women valuing both emotional and sexual monogamy more strongly than men. While both men and women viewed monogamy as relationship enhancing, men were more likely to view monogamy as a sacrifice. Individuals with gender roles defined by communal traits valued monogamy more highly. Each of the monogamy dimensions was significantly correlated with reported relationship satisfaction. Findings are interpreted from evolutionary and social constructionist perspectives.

Key Words: gender differences • gender role • infidelity • monogamy • relationship satisfaction

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Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, Vol. 24, No. 6, 819-835 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/0265407507084185


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This Article Abstract Free Full Text (Free PDF) Free Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Services Email this article to a friend Similar articles in this journal Similar articles in Web of Science Alert me to new issues of the journal Add to Saved Citations Download to citation manager Request Permissions Request Reprints Add to My Marked Citations Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Citing Articles via Scopus Google Scholar Articles by Schmookler, T. Articles by Bursik, K. Search for Related Content Social Bookmarking                         What's this?