Ducks Phase Model

Question 1

Phase model of relationship breakdown

Answer 1

4 Stages people go through when their relationship is not working.

Question 2

Intra-psychic phase

Answer 2

The focus of this phase is on the cognitive processes occurring within the individual. The dissatisfied partner privately broods on the reasons for his or her dissatisfaction. They weigh up the pros and cons of the rs and evaluate against the alternatives. They begin to make plans for the future

Question 3

Dyadic phase

Answer 3

Focus here in on interpersonal processes between the 2 processes. There comes a point where they cannot avoid talking about their rs any longer.there is a series of confrontation over a period of time, in which the red is discussed and dissatisfaction are aired. There are 2 possible outcomes - a determination to continue breaking up the relationship or a renewed desire to repair it

Question 4

Social phase

Answer 4

Focus is now on wider processes involving the couple’s social networks. The break-up is made public. Partners will seek support and mutual friends are expected to chose a side. Gossip is traded and encouraged

Question 5

Grave-dressing phase

Answer 5

The focus of this phase is on the aftermath. Once the relationship is dead, the times comes to bury it, by ‘spinning’ a favourable story about the breakdown for the public consumption. This allows the partners to save face and maintain a positive reputation, usually at the expensive of the other partner, showing them in a bad light. Gossip plays an import role in this phase and its crucial that each partner tries to retain ‘social credit’. Alsoninvolves creating a personal story you can live with, which may differ from the public one