ABSTRACT
Love and partnering are considered primary sources of happiness and meaning in life, and competent communication is central in developing and maintaining a successful (Fowers, 1998) and satisfying romantic relationship (Nicotera, 1993). Communication theorists (Wood, 1999) and other social scientists (Acitelli, 2001; Tannen, 1990) emphasize communication in terms of a relational dynamic and as a gender-influenced process. This article explores the intersection of these concepts by highlighting communication styles described and demonstrated in ten long-term lesbian relationships.
