Relation between neuroticism and dimensions of relationship commitment: Evidence from gay, lesbian, and heterosexual couples

The link between one's own and one's partner's neuroticism and components of one's own relationship commitment (perceived rewards, costs, match to ideal standard, alternatives, investments, and barriers) was examined for both partners from 61 gay, 42 lesbian, and 155 heterosexual couples. With controls for the other Big Five traits, one's own neuroticism and one's partner's neuroticism independently predicted costs, match to ideal standard, and alternatives. The link between one's neuroticism and these dimensions of one's commitment was mediated by one's life satisfaction, whereas the link between one's partner's neuroticism and these same dimensions was mediated by the partner's conflict resolution styles. It is concluded that neuroticism affects personal dedication to a relationship through both intrapersonal and interpersonal pathways.