Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

EVA FEINDLER, PH.D.

Second Advisor

CAMILO ORTIZ, PH.D.

Third Advisor

KAREN BLAIR, PH.D.

Abstract

Public Displays of Affection (PDA) amongst romantic couples are clearly shown in everyday life, though paradoxically, they are largely unexplored and therefore poorly understood. Not only is it unknown how PDA relates to other well-studied components of romantic relationships, but it is also unclear who engages in PDA. The present study investigated the relationship between public displays of affection and previously examined, fundamental components of romantic relationships including relationship satisfaction and attachment and communication styles. It then investigated the moderating effects of relationship satisfaction on respective communication and attachment styles and PDA. Sample size was 105 participants (N= 105). Students of a private Northeast university were recruited through a sample of convenience. The present study followed a correlation and moderation design, utilizing several self-report measures to examine these relationships. Results indicated PDA was positively associated with relationship satisfaction and a constructive communication style, and that relationship satisfaction significantly moderated the association between constructive communication and PDA. By introducing an empirically-based perspective to such commonplace behaviors, it is now increasingly feasible to acquire a more accurate understanding of internal processes of romantic relationships based on their outward demonstrations. Moreover, this newfound knowledge surrounding a preliminary conceptualization of PDA could be useful for psychologists when treating couples in the clinical setting.

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