Browsing by Author "Semanko, Anna Maruska"

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    Changing Dating Behavior Expectations by Using Judgmental Anchors to Induce Cognitive Dissonance
    (North Dakota State University, 2018) Semanko, Anna Maruska
    This study expanded upon literature separately examining numerical anchors and cognitive dissonance, by attempting to use numerical anchors to induce cognitive dissonance and change dating behavior expectations. The high numerical anchors had an effect on dating behavior expectations, such that the expectations assimilated in a healthier direction toward the anchor value. The dissonance manipulation resulted in higher levels of psychological discomfort, as measured by the scale created for this thesis. Further, an exploration of assessing magnitude of dissonance and an examination of the theoretical antecedents of dating behavior intentions was conducted. Overall, future dating behavior intentions for respect, trust, communication and helping behaviors were in healthy directions. Additionally, dating behavior intentions assessed four to six weeks after the study remained in a healthy direction. These findings are informative and contribute to our knowledge regarding the use of numerical anchors, cognitive dissonance, and undergraduate dating behavior expectations and intentions.
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    I Want to Break Up: Testing an Integrative Framework for Understanding and Predicting Romantic Relationship Dissolution
    (North Dakota State University, 2021) Semanko, Anna Maruska
    Romantic relationships are desired by the majority of individuals. Despite this prevalent desire, romantic relationships end often. What are the underlying motivations and reasons for breaking up with a romantic partner? The current research investigated this question through an innovative theoretical approach. First, salient beliefs associated with breaking up with a committed romantic partner were elicited (Study 1). Based on the prominent themes associated with breaking up, measures were designed to test a unique integrative framework for understanding and predicting romantic relationship dissolution (Study 2). This integrative framework is largely based on the theory of reasoned action (Fishbein & Ajzen, 2011) and the theory of interpersonal behavior (Triandis, 1977), elaborated to include select factors important in goal setting literature (Bagozzi & Warshaw, 1990; Gollwitzer, 1999). Results from a path analytic test of the integrative framework highlighted that attitudinal, affective, and social factors were particularly relevant for understanding and predicting intentions for romantic relationship dissolution. In all, the evidence gathered relating to the integrative framework contributes to our understanding of romantic relationship dissolution intentions and behavior. Furthermore, the integrative framework advances theoretical considerations for behavioral intention models, while also providing insights for behaviors and research regarding romantic relationships.