Duck's theory of relationship breakdown

Question 1

What is the intrapsychic phase?

Answer 1

• one partner feels privately dissatisfied
• considers whether they will be better off not being in the relationship
• feelings of resentment and being underbenefitted

Question 2

What is the dyadic phase?

Answer 2

• confronts partner
• discuss feelings and the future of the relationship
• relationship can be saved if both partners are motivated to resolve the issues

Question 3

What is the social phase?

Answer 3

• individuals confide in friends and family
• seeking sympathy
• public
• others may take sides or offer advice or support

Question 4

What is the grave dressing phase?

Answer 4

• individuals come up with a narrative that presents them as trustworthy and loyal
• makes them an option for future relationships

Question 5

What are the phases of Duck’s model of relationship breakdown?

Answer 5

Intrapsychic phase
Dyadic phase
Social phase
Grave dressing phase

Question 6

How can Duck’s model be criticised in terms of culture bias?

Answer 6

Based on western individualistic values

Assumes that relationships are temporary and that the individual has the option to leave

Question 7

How is Duck’s model more optimistic than other models of relationship breakdown?

Answer 7

Describes the phases of breakdown when a partner becomes dissatisfied
Indicates that the relationship can be saved at various points
Breakup is not inevitable

Question 8

Does Duck’s model have real-world application?

Answer 8

Can be used to prevent relationship breakdown.
By listening to the couple, a counsellor can identify the phase that the relationship is in and use it to provide interventions.
Intrapsyhic phase - individual can be asked to reflect on their contributions to the relationship and the strengths of their relationship.
Can also be used to guide the couple through the phases

Question 9

Why is Duck’s model not applicable to all relationships?

Answer 9

Doesn’t apply to ‘sudden death’ of relationships due to circumstances like infidelity. The individual is unlikely to go through all of the phases.
Also doesn’t apply to abusive relationships where it would be likely that the individual wouldn’t go through the social or dyadic phase.