University of Michigan Institute for Social Research

Fall 2009 Seminar Series
Harry Reis, Ph.D.
Professor of Psychology, Dept of Clinical & Social Psychology

University of Rochester

"Perceived Partner Responsiveness as an Organizing Theme for the Study of Relationships"
Monday November 09, 2009 (3:30 PM - 5:00 PM)

By now the evidence appears incontrovertible that successful relationships are a source of great advantage in human well-being, whereas unsuccessful relationships contribute to distress, misery, and poor health. Despite hundreds of studies testifying to these associations, as yet the field has not developed clear models to characterize in a broad and conceptually inclusive way the relationship features that contribute to, or impair well-being. I propose that perceived partner responsiveness may represent one such theme. I will discuss this theme, illustrating it with evidence from three areas of research: the association between perceived partner responsiveness and well-being; how partner responses help individuals capitalize on personal good fortune; and the role of perceived partner responsiveness in self-regulation

If you would like to meet with the speaker, please click here to contact Elaine Whitaker.