Clarifying relationship instability: Exploring the vital role of change in commitment

Abstract

Although relationship instability is one of the most widely studied relationship concepts, its definition remains unclear. To advance clarity and transparency in this area, we outline the diverse ways relationship instability is conceptualized and propose a conceptual model of relationship instability as a process. Given the important role of commitment in relationship development, we define relationship instability as a process of dramatic change in relational experiences centered on fluctuations in commitment. In addition to outlining the relationship instability process model and exploring other contextual considerations, we provide recommendations for scholars and encourage transparency through the provision of an overt definition of the component of instability assessed in future research.