Purpose of the research study:
The purpose of the study is to look at some of the important factors that determine what makes people happy in relationships and the components of a healthy and long-lasting intimate partnership. The information from individual surveys will be combined with responses from hundreds of other participants to create a picture of typical relationships. Once the most important factors can be identified, programs to help couples be happier and more fulfilled may be developed.
What you will do in the study:
After agreeing to take the online study, you will be asked to answer questions about basic demographic information as well as different aspects of your romantic relationship. The surveys will ask you to respond to a variety of questions and/or statements, such as, "I consult my partner about important decisions."
After receiving your study responses, we will replace any potentially identifying information with a non-identifying code for data analysis. We will keep all information confidential, and your responses will be stored in a file separate from any personally identifiable information.
Time required:
The surveys should take no longer than 45-60 minutes to complete.
Possible Discomforts and/or Risks:
Since the study surveys ask about romance, conflict, cooperation and other aspects of relationships, there is some risk that these questions might be upsetting to you. If you would like to speak to a professional about any concerns, a list of available services will be provided at the end of the surveys.
Benefits:
There are no direct benefits to you for participating in this research study.
Confidentiality:
The information that you give in the study will be obtained anonymously. Any potentially identifiable information you provide will be removed or disguised so that your identity can not be connected to your study data. All data will be aggregated across participants for reporting results of analyses, and no identifiable information will be used in any reports.
Voluntary participation:
Your participation in this study is completely voluntary.
Right to withdraw from the study:
You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without penalty.
How to withdraw from the study:
To withdraw from the study, do not complete the survey. If you withdraw from the study, only your research responses up to the point of withdrawal will be included in the database. If you would prefer that all of your data be deleted from the research database, please contact the primary investigator Dr. Peter Sheras.
Payment:
You will not receive any compensation for your participation in this survey.
Who to contact if you have questions about the study:
Dr. Peter Sheras, Department of Human Services, University of Virginia, P.O. Box 400270, Charlottesville, VA 22904. Telephone: (434) 924-0795. Email: pls@virginia.edu
Who to contact about your rights in the study:
Tonya R. Moon, Ph.D.; Chair, Institutional Review Board for the Social and Behavioral Sciences; P.O. Box 800392; University of Virginia; Charlottesville, VA 22908-0392. Telephone: (434) 924-5999. Email: irbsbshelp@virginia.edu. Website: www.virginia.edu/vprgs/irb
IRB Project Number: 2006-0389-00