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Couples / Close Relationships

(PS4-32) Technology and intimate partner relationships

Friday, November 21, 2025
4:30 PM - 5:30 PM CST
Location: Elite Hall A, Level 1

    Author(s)

  • Michelle Leonard, Ph.D.

    Professor of Psychology
    University of Michigan Dearborn
    Dearborn, Michigan, United States

    • Co-Author(s)

  • JM

    Joelle Milecki, B.A.

    Research Assistant
    University of Michigan - Dearborn
    Livonia, Michigan, United States

Abstract Text: The pervasive integration of technology into everyday life has precipitated fundamental changes in how individuals connect and communicate. This transformation is most evident in romantic relationships, where digital communication tools have redefined how couples interact, manage conflicts, and express intimacy (Coyne et al., 2011). Previous research highlights the dual nature of digital communication for couples, where apps and platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Snapchat can enhance connectivity by offering immediate and versatile forms of interaction (Schade et al., 2018; Hertlein & Ancheta, 2014). Yet, these technologies can also introduce misalignment with challenges like message misinterpretation and the disruption of face-to-face communication (Coyne et al., 2011; McDaniel & Coyne, 2016). Technology has been shown to hinder communication patterns, limit the depth of exchanges, and lead to overarching relational misunderstandings by acting as a distraction in couple interactions (Hertlein and Blumer (2014). Moreover, the constantly changing technology/application space necessitates researchers to examine how new developments impact couples' ability to communicate. Disagreements may stem from mismatched expectations about digital interaction norms, boundaries, or responsiveness. When partners misperceive each other’s digital behaviors or hold differing expectations about online engagement, conflicts may arise, mirroring the broader trends in perceptual incongruence (Ivanov & Werner, 2018). The dynamic between these types of technology-assisted communications and relationship satisfaction is not merely of academic interest; it is crucial for enhancing overall health and well-being (Kiecolt-Glaser & Newton, 2001; Kiecolt-Glaser & Wilson, 2017). The survey will collect data on the frequency and type of technologies and mobile phone applications commonly used by couples to maintain connections, along with any frustrations or challenges that accompany these communication methods experienced by the participants. Additionally, the study seeks to understand how this type of technology-mediated communication may inadvertently cause inconvenience, disagreements, or distress and how these factors are associated with relationship satisfaction. Prior research has found a direct link between relationship maintenance behaviors completed through online or computer-based interactions and satisfaction within the relationship (Sidelinger et al., 2008). Thus, results may have implications for couples-based interventions and underscore the importance of digital communication norms and expectations. Data collection for the current study is ongoing; complete data is expected to be available in June.