The Michelangelo phenomenon and personal well-being

J Pers. 2002 Feb;70(1):59-77. doi: 10.1111/1467-6494.00178.

Abstract

Previous research has demonstrated that when a close romantic partner views you and behaves toward you in a manner that is congruent with your ideal self, you experience movement toward your ideal self (termed the "Michelangelo phenomenon"; Drigotas, Rusbult, Wieselquist, & Whitton, 1999). The present research represents an attempt demonstrate the phenomenon's link to personal well-being. Results of a cross-sectional study of individuals in dating relationships, with a 2-month follow-up assessing breakup, replicated previous findings regarding relationship well-being and revealed strong links between the model and personal well-being, even when accounting for level of relationship satisfaction. Such results provide further evidence for the social construction of the self and personal well-being.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Adult
  • Courtship*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations*
  • Male
  • Personal Satisfaction*
  • Psychological Theory
  • Regression Analysis
  • Self Concept*
  • Texas