When does performance feedback prompt complementarity in romantic relationships?

Two studies addressed five issues concerning complementarity in romantic re lationships and suggest that complementarity deserves a new look. Dating co uples (N = 28 couples) and married couples (N = 43), were given performance feedback to assess effects on self and perceived partner relevance. We fou nd that comparison with a partner but not comparison with a stranger prompt ed complementarity (Study 1). Comparison resulted in complementarity and di d not merely change self-image (Studies 1 and 2). Both outperforming the pa rtner and being outperformed by the partner can prompt complementarity (Stu dy 2). Ceding areas to the partner in response to being outperformed was re latively automatic (Study 2). And, degree of development in the relationshi p influenced response to comparison-feedback (Studies I and 2). Findings su ggest that partners in romantic relationships automatically protect their v iews of the relationship as a "team" by increasing "perceived complementari ty" in response to differential performance feedback.