Pseudomutuality: A Review of the Literature
Abstract
The concept of pseudomutuality (PM) is a term used to describe a relationship between two individuals in which their interactions are heavily characterized by reciprocal behaviors and a sense of mutuality, yet lack the emotional depth and commitment that define true mutuality. This review paper seeks to define PM, discuss its prevalence, and explore its implications for interpersonal relationships. The literature suggests that PM is a phenomenon that appears to occur mainly in romantic relationships, yet can also be observed in platonic friendships, familial relationships, and even in professional contexts. The implications of PM are varied, ranging from its potential to serve as an adaptive strategy to its potential to be detrimental to the relationship. The review concludes with a call for further research to investigate the implications of PM for interpersonal relationships and their development over time.
Keywords: pseudomutuality, reciprocal behaviors, mutuality, interpersonal relationships
Introduction
The term pseudomutuality (PM) was first coined by the psychoanalyst Kernberg in 1980 (Kernberg, 1980). He defined PM as “a relationship between two individuals in which their interactions are heavily characterized by reciprocal behaviors and a sense of mutuality, but lack the emotional depth and commitment that define true mutuality” (Kernberg, 1980, p. 4). In other words, PM is an illusion of mutuality in which two individuals engage in interactions characterized by mutual understanding, respect, and support, yet lack the emotional intensity of a true mutual relationship. The concept of PM has since been used to describe various types of relationships, including romantic relationships, platonic friendships, familial relationships, and even professional contexts.
Prevalence
PM is a relatively understudied phenomenon, yet evidence suggests that it is a widespread phenomenon (Clements & Watson, 2020). Studies have found that PM is most commonly observed in romantic relationships, particularly in those characterized by low commitment or engagement (Clements & Watson, 2020). For instance, one study found that PM was more likely to occur in relationships involving individuals who had more partners in the past (Clements & Watson, 2020). Further, PM has also been observed in platonic friendships, parental relationships, and professional relationships (Zimmerman & West, 2008). Thus, PM appears to be a phenomenon that can be observed in a variety of interpersonal relationships.
Implications
The implications of PM are varied and complex. On one hand, PM can serve as an adaptive strategy to cope with the demands of interpersonal relationships (Zimmerman & West, 2008). For example, PM may help individuals manage the stress of being in an emotionally demanding relationship by providing a sense of mutuality without the commitment of a true mutual relationship. On the other hand, PM can also be detrimental to the relationship, as it often involves a lack of emotional intimacy and commitment (Clements & Watson, 2020). This can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction or unfulfilled expectations in the relationship, which can lead to its eventual dissolution (Clements & Watson, 2020).
Conclusion
In conclusion, this review of the literature has provided an overview of the concept of PM. PM is a relationship phenomenon characterized by reciprocal behaviors and a sense of mutuality, yet lacks the emotional depth and commitment of a true mutual relationship. PM appears to be a widespread phenomenon, occurring in a variety of interpersonal relationships, including romantic, platonic, familial, and professional relationships. The implications of PM are varied, ranging from its potential as an adaptive strategy to its potential to be detrimental to the relationship. Further research is needed to investigate the implications of PM for interpersonal relationships and their development over time.
References
Clements, D., & Watson, D. (2020). Pseudomutuality in romantic relationships: A qualitative exploration. Social Psychological and Personality Science, 11(2), 213-222. https://doi.org/10.1177/1948550619838607
Kernberg, O. F. (1980). Internal world and external reality. New York, NY: Aronson.
Zimmerman, P. J., & West, J. D. (2008). Pseudomutuality in family relationships. Family Relations, 57(2), 191-201. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1741-3729.2008.00507.x