Microsoft Word 2007 ichrie conference Proceedings Final-Final 06-06-07. doc

 
2007 Annual International CHRIE Conference & Exposition 
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quality of alternatives is high. Conversely, John may feel more committed to the relationship when the “pulling 
forces” are weak.
I 
nvestment Size. Finally, investment size, i.e., any tangible or intangible resources attached to a relationship 
that may be lost or diminished once the relationship is dissolved, also contributes to the stability of a partnership. A 
variety of things, such as time, self-disclosure, mutual friends, and social status that the relationship brings, may be 
tied to John’s current relationship, for which John becomes bound to Mary and their relationship.
 
Thus, the Investment Model maintains that John’s commitment to the relationship is strengthened by the 
level of satisfaction that John derives from the relationship, is fueled by his investments to the relationship, and is 
weakened by the quality of alternatives to the relationship. Although the Investment Model was originally proposed 
to examine interpersonal relationships (e.g., romantic involvement and friendship), it has been tested across various 
non-personal settings. Le and Agnew (2003, p. 54) concluded that “the Investment Model is not strictly an 
interpersonal theory and can be extended to such areas as commitment to jobs, persistence with hobbies or activities, 
loyalty to institutions, decision-making, and purchase behaviors.”