Vantage Sensitivity to Perceived Partner Responsiveness: Examine the Moderating Role of Heart Rate Variability

Abstract

Perceived partner responsiveness (PPR) is defined as being accurately understood, appreciated and cared for. Previous research has demonstrated that perceived partner responsiveness is an essential component of close relationships that predicts emotional and physical well-being. However, not all the people benefit from having a responsive partner to the same degree. Motivated by vantage sensitivity hypothesis, the current study examined heart rate variability (HRV) as a potential vantage resource that moderates the link between perceived partner responsiveness and hedonic and eudaimonic well-being ten years later using the second and third waves of Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) dataset. Longitudinal analyses revealed that there was no significant interaction between heart rate variability and perceived partner responsiveness in predicting either hedonic or eudaimonic well-being. These findings are first to test vantage sensitivity hypothesis in the context of romantic relationships.