Age differences in perceptions of control in social relationships.

To date, few studies have examined perceptions of control in interpersonal relationships, and whether such perceptions reflect individual characteristics (e.g., age) and features of relationships (e.g., quality). One hundred and eighty-seven individuals aged 13 to 99 (M = 45.62, SD = 25.69) provided information about their close and problematic relationships and their perceptions of control over those relationships. Multilevel modeling revealed that both relationship features and individual characteristics were associated with perceptions of control in relationships. Specifically, individuals felt more control in their marital relationships, and in relationships characterized by higher quality and fewer worries. Age differences in individuals' perceptions of control in relationships appear to reflect age-related shifts in perceptions of control in the parent-child tie.