It is assumed that individuals act to increase their level of control over others, in those stages of relationships in which control over the situation has been disrupted by others. Trying to control others counteracts the effect of these disruptions, so that control over the situation is maintained. The idea was tested on a sample of 272 people (aged between 18 and 30 years) and the results confirmed this premise.
Because dating can “set the stage” for marriage (Cate & Lloyd, 1992), this research examines the exercise of control over dating.
In the literature, one of the most popular theories for the greater power of some individuals over others has been the theory of resources – power is based on who has the greatest socio-economic resources in marriage (Blood & Wolfe.1960). Men and women who have more education, income and professional prestige, compared to their partners, have more power.
Control in Dating Relationships
Jan E. Stets
Journal of Marriage and Family
Vol. 55, No. 3 (Aug., 1993), pp. 673-685 (13 pages)
Published By: National Council on Family Relations
Journal of Marriage and Family