An Examination of Equity and Interdependence Theory as Predictors of Maintenance Behaviours: Interracial Vs. Intraracial Dating Relationships

The purpose of the current study is to further test interdependence theory as a predictor of relational maintenance behaviours. The study sought to understand the relational maintenance behaviours of romantic interracial and intraracial dating partners. This study conceptualized a method to explore how equity, according to interdependence theory, is associated with relational maintenance strategies of interracial and intraracial dating couples. Participants included 133 interracial dyads and 131 intraracial dyads who had been in a romantic relationship with their partner for at least a year. Findings indicate that there is a significant difference in the use of maintenance strategies.