In the context of human relationships, commitment is defined as an agreement between partners to maintain their relationship for a specific amount of time or until one partner dies. Romantic relationships are based on trust and dependability, which allows couples to plan for the future and make decisions together.
When individuals experience chronic uncertainty regarding the future, it can negatively impact their ability to form long-term romantic commitments and engage in relational planning.
One reason why chronic uncertainty affects long-term commitments is that it creates fear and anxiety about what might happen in the future. Uncertainty can be caused by external factors such as financial instability, health problems, job loss, or natural disasters. These events can create a sense of helplessness and powerlessness, making people feel like they have no control over their lives. This fear and anxiety can lead to negative thoughts and behaviors, including avoidance, denial, and emotional withdrawal. In a romantic relationship, this can manifest as avoiding discussions about the future, refusing to make plans, and difficulty committing to each other. As a result, the relationship may become unstable, leading to conflict and breakups.
Another way chronic uncertainty impacts romantic commitments is through cognitive biases. Cognitive biases refer to mental shortcuts that help us process information quickly but can also cause errors in judgment.
Some people may assume that uncertainty will always lead to negative outcomes, which leads them to believe that committing to someone is pointless because nothing will work out. Others may think that if something bad happens once, it will keep happening again, causing them to avoid any potential commitment. These biases can lead to negative thought patterns that reinforce themselves, making it difficult for people to trust others or see any possibility for happiness.
In addition to these individual factors, chronic uncertainty can also lead to relational stressors. When partners are uncertain about the future, they may experience high levels of anxiety and fear, which can affect communication and intimacy. They may find it hard to connect emotionally or physically with their partner, creating distance and tension. This lack of connection can ultimately undermine the relationship's foundation, making it harder to build a strong bond based on mutual trust and support.
There are ways individuals and couples can manage chronic uncertainty and its impact on long-term relationships. One approach is to focus on the present moment and take things one day at a time. By living in the present, individuals can reduce anxiety by focusing on what they have control over instead of worrying about the unknown. Couples can also create safety zones where they discuss their worries, fears, and hopes without judgment or criticism.
Seeking professional counseling or therapy can help individuals develop coping mechanisms and strategies for managing uncertainty.
How does chronic uncertainty about the future impact long-term romantic commitments and relational planning?
The impact of chronic uncertainty on long-term romantic commitments is dependent upon a variety of factors, such as individual differences in attachment styles and personal values. In general, however, research suggests that feelings of instability and unpredictability can create challenges for maintaining healthy relationships over time (Rholes & Sagarin, 2015).