Risk Regulation in Relationships: Self-Esteem and the If-Then Contingencies of Interdependent Life

R omantic relationships pose a unique and unsettling interdependence dilemma. The thoughts and behaviors that are critical for satisfying close connections necessarily increase both the short-term risk and the long-term pain of rejection. Consequently, to risk a sense of connection, people need to feel safe and protected from potential hurts (Murray, Holmes, & Griffin, 2000).