Knee, C. Raymond2018-03-012018-03-01December 22013-12December 2http://hdl.handle.net/10657/2715Research has examined the role of self-determination in relationships has focused solely on the self, and has ignored how relationship autonomy relates to increased focus on one’s partner. Recent work on interpersonal goals may provide insight into the dyadic nature of relationship autonomy. The present research explored the link between these two theoretical concepts in order to explain the nature of self-determination in relationships. I examined how relationship autonomy is associated with desire to support one’s partner as well as reduction in self-focus. The study had 99 undergraduates report on their relationship autonomy and interpersonal goals. Participants kept a record of their experiences in their relationships over the course of 14 days. The results revealed that relationship autonomy was associated with higher compassionate goals, lower self-image goals, and better relationship quality (e.g., satisfaction, support, and response to conflict). However, evidence for a mediational link with interpersonal goals was less consistent.application/pdfengThe author of this work is the copyright owner. UH Libraries and the Texas Digital Library have their permission to store and provide access to this work. Further transmission, reproduction, or presentation of this work is prohibited except with permission of the author(s).Self-determination theoryInterpersonal GoalsMotivationRomantic relationshipsIntrapersonal predictors2018-03-01Thesisborn digital