Meat-Eating Justification and Relationship Closeness with Vegetarian Family, Friends, and Romantic Partners

Vegetarians/vegans report negative reactions upon disclosing their diets. Meat-eating justification beliefs were hypothesized to relate to negative responses and relationship closeness. Surveys were completed by 190 omnivores (who had vegetarian/vegan relationships). Results showed that denial and dissociation justifications significantly predicted lower closeness. Hierarchical justification significantly predicted higher closeness. Results showed significantly higher closeness (frequency, diversity) before diet change. Strength of influence significantly increased after diet change. A significant interaction showed frequency was significantly lower after diet change for friends and family members, but significantly higher for romantic relationships. The findings may aid in developing therapeutic interventions leading to strengthened relationships.

Recommended Citation

Vandehei, A. D. (2020, October 1-2). Meat-eating justification and relationship closeness with vegetarian family, friends, and romantic partners [Poster presentation]. Walden University Research Conference 2020 (online). https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/researchconference/2020/posters/39/