The use of apologies in romantic relationships

This study investigated the severity of offense, time to apologize, attachment styles, and religious commitment in the context of romantic relationships (n = 239). Findings showed that severity of offense was the strongest predictor of apology acceptance, perception of sincerity of apology, motivation toward avoidance, and motivation toward revenge. Additional predictors include religious commitment and anxiety types of attachment styles. Results and implications are discussed in terms of how important mediating factors influence the role of apologies in romantic relationships.