Low Relational Mobility Fosters Interpersonal Indecision Through Increased Sensitivity to Social Rejection

Abstract

Relational mobility is a socio-ecological factor that shapes our interpersonal behaviors. Across four studies involving three countries (N = 2,874), we tested the hypothesis that low relational mobility increases sensitivity to social rejection, which in turn fosters decision avoidance and difficulty in interpersonal situations (i.e., interpersonal indecision). Study 1 showed that countries with low relational mobility reported more subjective difficulties in interpersonal decision-making. Studies 2a and 2b demonstrated that cross-country differences in interpersonal indecision can be mediated by relational mobility and concerns about rejection. Study 3 further revealed that this mechanism is driven by heightened concerns and evaluations of negative relationship outcomes. Study 4 replicated the proposed mechanism using a scale that assesses the general tendency to experience interpersonal indecision. Our findings highlight the importance of socio-ecological context in shaping experiences when navigating interpersonal relationships.

Keywords

relational mobility interpersonal indecision rejection sensitivity social ecology culture

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