Close farmer as sculptor of the ideal self: Behavioral affirmation and the Michelangelo phenomenon

Author(s): Rusbult, C. E., Wieselquist, J., Whitton, S. W.

Journal/Book: J Personal Soc Psychol. 1999; 77: 750 First St NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242, USA. Amer Psychological Assoc. 293-323.

Abstract: This work incorporates concepts from the behavioral confirmation tradition, self tradition, and interdependence tradition to identify an interpersonal process termed the Michelangelo phenomenon. The Michelangelo phenomenon describes the means by which the self is shaped by a close partner's perceptions and behavior. Specifically, self movement toward the ideal self is described as a product of partner affirmation, or the degree to which a partner's perceptions of the self and behavior toward the self are congruent with the self's ideal. The results of 4 studies revealed strong associations between perceived partner affirmation and self movement toward the ideal self, using it variety of participant populations and measurement methods. In addition, perceived partner affirmation-particularly perceived partner behavioral affirmation-was strongly associated with quality of couple functioning and stability in ongoing relationships.

Note: Article Drigotas SM, So Methodist Univ, Dept Psychol, Dallas,TX 75275 USA

Keyword(s): ACCOMMODATIVE DILEMMAS; POSITIVE ILLUSIONS; FULFILLING NATURE; DISCREPANCY; MARRIAGE; LOVE; ATTRACTION; SIMILARITY; PERCEPTION; COGNITION

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