FAMILY-OF-ORIGIN INFLUENCES ON LATE ADOLESCENT ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS

Using Bowenian theory as a foundation, this study examined the hypothe sis that properties of close relationships are transmitted from one ge neration to the next. A large sample of single, never married, late ad olescents (N = 977) completed measures regarding trait anxiety, family dynamics (triangulation, fusion, and control) in the family of origin , and communication patterns in romantic relationships. Multivariate r egression analyses indicated that fusion and control were associated w ith higher anxiety. In addition, fusion and control in the family of o rigin were related to communication in romantic relationships of late adolescents. In accordance with Bowenian theory, anxiety mediated the effects of fusion and control in the family of origin on romantic rela tionships. Although triangulation in the family of origin was unrelate d to anxiety, triangulation was related to aversive communication in c lose relationships. The findings provide partial confirmation and sugg est several extensions to Bowen's theory of intergenerational transmis sion.