Cultural Tightness Predicts a Preference for Exchange Norms in Romantic Relationships

Poster Session I

Thursday May 22, 2025 (19:30 - 20:30 ET)
Keyword: Love and Marriage

Abstract: This research explored cultural tightness in romantic relationships. Three studies, measuring tightness at the individual and state level, found a positive association between tightness and preference for exchange norms. Although communal norms are highly valued in relationships, these findings suggest that people’s preferences may depend on their cultural context.