Expectations of romantic relationships: A comparison between homosexual and heterosexual men with regard to Baxter's criteria

Abstract

According to Baxter (1986) every relationship has rules which must be followed. If at least one of these rules is broken, it gives the individual the right to breakup the relationship. Baxter identified 8 such rules or criteria. The aim in the present study was to investigate whether or not the expectations of romantic relationships held by homosexual men can be linked to Baxter’s criteria. Data were obtained through a questionnaire addressed to 31 homosexual men and 50 heterosexual men. Results indicated that Baxter’s criteria can be linked to expectations of romantic relationships held by men regardless of sexual orientation, and that age and experience are more reliable predictors than is sexual orientation.