Duck’s Phase Model of Relationship Breakdown Flashcards
What is pre-existing doom?
The relationship was doomed to end from the start. This could be a result of the partners simply being incompatible for each other.
What is mechanical failure?
Partners who are compatible slowly grow apart over a long period of time and decide that things are no longer working. This is the most common cause of breakups.
What is sudden death?
This is where the relationship suddenly ends.
For instance, after discovering a partner has cheated or the couple has a huge argument, which swiftly ends the relationship.
What are predisposing personal factors that contribute towards dissolution?
Bad habits and / or poor personal hygiene
What are precipitating factors that contribute towards dissolution?
Things like love rivals, long work hours, boredom
What are lack of skills that contribute towards dissolution?
If your partner is sexually inexperienced or doesn’t fulfil your sexual needs. Poor cooking skills etc could also contribute.
What are lack of motivation factors that contribute towards dissolution?
Previous theories cover this - e.g., inequity. Perhaps an individual does not put the effort into the relationship.
What are lack of maintenance factors that contribute towards dissolution?
Spending much time apart, not setting time aside for the relationship, independence too much of a feature.
What is the intrapsychic stage?
One partner privately begins to feel dissatisfaction with the relationship.
What is the dyadic stage?
Dissatisfaction is discussed with partner. If nothing changes, the next stage is activated.
What is the social stage?
The breakdown is made public to friends and family. Negotiations may occur (with children, finances, etc.).
What is the grave dressing stage?
Post-relationship perception is created. Ex-partners now rebuild their life towards new relationships.
What is the resurrection stage?
Reconfiguring oneself for future relationships.
How will the partner that is in charge of the breakdown process deal with the breakup?
For instance, the partner in charge of the breakdown process (i.e., the one doing the dumping) is likely to be more positive about moving on. They are also more likely to have their reputation intact with maintained ‘social credit’.
How will the partner that is not in charge of the breakdown process deal with the breakup?
The other partner (i.e., the dumpee) is more likely to find the break-up stressful and due to ineffective strategies within the social stage (getting their own version of events heard) will likely face social consequences. This can lead to mental health issues, with depression being a likely outcome.
