An exploratory study examining the weight of non-disclosure and its effect on varying indices of physical and psychological stress in the context of a romantic relationship. Relationship length and severity of the non-disclosure are pitted as primary indicators of how stress expression may be regulated in context. The psychological, physiological, and sociological correlates of stress are examined in relation to strategically withholding information from one’s partner. Findings indicate while strategic non-disclosure in a romantic relationship may not correlate to chronic stress, short term stress of a non-disclosure may hinder overall wellness of an individual in short term engagements. In addition, correlations between stress and honesty indicate that honesty in a relationship is better for the individual, but not for the overall relationship.
