SWEET LITTLE LIES: DECEPTION IN ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS

Abstract

Undoubtedly, deception plays a complex role in romantic relationships. This study examines the use of deception in romantic relationships by utilizing 67 participants' responses to qualitative methodology whereby participants recorded their use of deception and the motives to use deception as these speech patterns occurred within their romantic relationships. This study sought to gain a richer understanding of the extent deception is used in the relationship, common topics of deceptive messages, common motives for deceiving romantic partners, and how the use of deception functions in romantic relationships. Results exemplified the complex and sometimes contradictory nature of deception in romantic relationships as participants reported it can function in both positive and negative ways.