Relational commitment toward a partner in prison : an investment model analysis

Based on Rusbult’s (1980) Investment Model, the present study aimed to examine the underlying mechanisms of why partners of detainees remain in their relationship despite the hassles difficulties they may go through. Furthermore, the association between commitment and the number of monthly visits partners pay to their imprisoned partner was also examined. The Investment Model Scale (Rusbult, 1980) was used to assess: (1) Commitment, (2) Relationship satisfaction, (3) Alternatives for the relationship, and (4) Investments in the relationship, in a sample of one hundred female partners of detainees (M = 35.985 years, SD = 12.41). As expected, satisfaction was positively and alternatives negatively associated with commitment, whereas investment showed no association with commitment. Commitment was also positively related to the number of visits. Given that relationships are an important protective factor with regard to recidivism, the results of the current study may inform prison initiatives aimed at supporting relationship maintenance