Invited Article Fudging with Friends and Lying to Lovers: Deceptive Communication in Personal Relationships

Abstract

Although a considerable body of recent research has addressed the problem of deceptive communication, few studies have examined deceptive communication in personal relationships. We argue that the occurrence, substance, and outcomes of deceptive communication are markedly influenced by the nature of the communicators' relationship. To redeem this claim, we examine how several differences between impersonal and personal relationships may influence deceptive exchanges, and consider some of the implications of the distinctions for future research dealing with deceptive communication in personal relationships.

Temporal dynamics of trust in ongoing inter-organizational relationships

“…Literature on the dark side of trust has primarily focused on "betrayal" (e.g. Jones, Cohn, & Miller, 1991;Metts, 1989;Miller, Mongeau, & Sleight, 1986) and relational tensions (Fang, Chang, & Peng, 2011) as a result of close relationships (Anderson & Jap, 2005). Due to our broader conceptualization, we identified various categories of dark side behaviors.…”

“…Trust is a necessary precursor to group living and the development of specific relationships, and higher levels of trust are associated with greater likeability and happiness. On the other hand, the very process of trusting specific people increases the likelihood of being betrayed (Jones et al, 1991;Metts, 1989;Miller et al, 1986). Further, the persons most likely to betray are the closest friends and relations (e.g.…”

Transitional Friends? Young People's Strategies to Manage and Maintain their Friendships During a Period of Repositioning

“…Although there are a small number of examples of adults attempting to negotiate hierarchies and inequalities in their friendships (Zorn, 1995) and deceiving their friends (Miller et al, 1986), further research is needed to explore whether the differences, difficulties and strategies for maintaining friendships outlined in this paper are replicated widely within adult friendships.…”

Deception in disclosing one's sexual history: Safe‐sex avoidance or ignorance?

“…Lying, either by omission or commission, is a control tactic on the part of the liar in order to strategically influence the attributions one's partner will make concerning oneself (Camden, Motley, & Wilson, 1984;Metts, 1989;Miller, Mongeau, & Sleight, 1986). Yet, not providing one's partner with an honest assessment of the risk factors involved in sexual intimacy is a serious health threat.…”