Semester
Summer
Date of Graduation
2009
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MA
College
Eberly College of Arts and Sciences
Department
Communication Studies
Committee Chair
David Westerman.
Committee Co-Chair
Brain Patterson
Committee Member
John Cole
Abstract
This study investigated the relationship between high exposure to reality television dating shows (Rock of Love, The Bachelorette, etc) and higher perceptions of alternatives to a current romantic relationship as explained by Cultivation Theory (Gerbner & Gross, 1973) and the Investment Model (Rusbult, 1980). This study employs interpersonal communication strategies to study media effects. Surveys were collected from 273 students at a large university. Results indicate higher exposure to reality television dating shows may cultivate a higher perception of alternatives to a current romantic relationship, however do not cultivate a belief that one's partner believes themselves to have a high perception of alternatives. Various covariates are also tested including love styles and the perceived reality of television. Limitations and directions for future research are also discussed.
Recommended Citation
Meade, Thomas L., "The dating game: Cultivation effects on relational investment" (2009). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 770.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/770