Theories of romantic relationships & breakdown

Mike and Dan are talking about their 10-year relationship. Dan says, “I’d hate to start again with someone new. It could never be the same with anyone else. We’ve had some great holidays and fun with our friends.” Mike agrees: “Just look at the lovely home we have built together and the things we’ve saved up for and chosen together. Also, who would have the cats?”

Explain how Rusbult’s investment model of romantic relationships can be applied to the conversation between Mike and Dan.

Discuss Duck’s phase model of relationship breakdown.

Chris and Sam are discussing their 15-year relationship.

Chris says, “Compared to the relationships of our friends, I think I get a good deal. I do the household jobs and you earn plenty of money. It works well.”

Sam says, “It balances out. Also, it would be such a waste if we split up now. We’ve each put a lot of time and effort into this relationship and we have a lovely home. It could never be this good with anyone else.”

Use your knowledge of theories of romantic relationships to explain the comments made by Chris and Sam.

Describe Duck’s phase model of relationship breakdown.

Which one of the following best describes social exchange theory? Write the correct letter in your answer book.

A A theory that proposes individuals focus on balancing effort and gain.

B A theory that proposes individuals focus on cost rather than reward.

C A theory that proposes individuals focus on getting out more than they put in.

D A theory that proposes individuals focus on how much has been contributed so far.

Outline Rusbult’s model of romantic relationships. Explain one or more strength(s) of Rusbult’s model.

Describe and evaluate the social exchange theory of romantic relationships.

Briefly outline what is meant by ‘equity’ in relation to theories of romantic relationships.

Barbara and Jamima are both having relationship difficulties with their respective partners.

Barbara says, ‘I’m really fed up and I wish the relationship was over. But I can’t tell him, because he thinks everything is fine.’

Jamima says, ‘We are getting through it slowly. We’ve told the children what’s going to happen to them and sorted out the money side. My mum was upset but she’s OK about it now. Friends take sides of course.’

Referring to Barbara’s and Jamima’s comments, outline two phases of relationship breakdown proposed by Duck.