Predicting Relational Maintenance Behavior Through Investment Level and Relationship Identity

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the predictive roles of investment level and relationship identity in relational maintenance behavior among individuals in romantic relationships. A correlational descriptive design was employed using a sample of 390 adult participants from Peru, selected based on the Morgan and Krejcie sample size table. Standardized instruments were used to measure relational maintenance behavior (Relational Maintenance Strategy Measure), investment level (Investment Model Scale), and relationship identity (Inclusion of Other in the Self Scale). Data were analyzed using SPSS-27. Descriptive statistics were calculated, followed by Pearson correlation coefficients to examine relationships between variables, and linear regression to assess the predictive power of investment level and relationship identity on relational maintenance behavior. Pearson correlation results revealed significant positive relationships between relational maintenance behavior and both investment level (r = .52, p < .001) and relationship identity (r = .61, p < .001). The linear regression model was significant, F(2, 387) = 160.23, p < .001, with R² = .46, indicating that 46% of the variance in relational maintenance behavior was explained by the predictors. Multivariate regression coefficients showed that both investment level (β = .34, p < .001) and relationship identity (β = .46, p < .001) were significant predictors, with relationship identity demonstrating a stronger effect. The results suggest that both investment level and relationship identity are important predictors of relational maintenance behavior, with identity playing a more central role. These findings support the integration of social exchange and identity theories in understanding relational dynamics and underscore the importance of internal psychological constructs in sustaining romantic relationships.