Risk orientation, loving, and liking in long-term romantic relationships

Abstract

This study investigates three hypotheses: Similarity between romantic partners in risk taking predicts partner liking and loving; risk taking in either partner correlates negatively with liking and loving; and these tendencies are accentuated in particular risk domains. A survey of 147 heterosexual couples tests these hypotheses in six risk domains. The similarity hypothesis is supported in all domains for perceived self/ partner differences but most emphatically in ethical risks. Likewise, higher self-reported risk taking and higher ratings of partner's risk taking negatively predict loving and liking, but only in specific domains. Overall, risk orientations in ethical, health, and gambling domains are the best predictors of loving and liking. Findings are discussed regarding theory and research on criteria for "ideal" partners in long-term romantic relationships.