Ducks Phase model of relationship breakdown Flashcards
Outline of Ducks Phase model
Ducks phase model describes the stages of relationship breakdown
-it does not state that each stage inevitably leads to the next stage, instead suggesting that the journey to relationship breakdown can be averted in any of the first three phases
-relationship breakdown is slow, according to Duck, and can take place over a number of weeks, months or years
-each phase is characterised by a specific threshold at which ascension to the next stage is inevitable
First stage (intra psychic phase)
Intra psychic phase starts when one person in the relationship feels as if the relationship is not working
-this could be due to feelings of dissatisfaction, lack of equity etc
- the person will not air their feelings out to their partner and will at most confide in a trusted friend or write in a journal (potential pros and cons list)
-the person will dwell on their partners (perceived or real) flaws and can reinforce them with confirmation bias
-the threshold can be characterised as “I’m so sick of this, things have to change”
Second stage (Dyadic phase)
-The Dyadic phase is the second stage of the Duck’s relationship model and this is when the person that originally had feelings of dissatisfaction and inequity, airs these feelings out to their partner
-This will likely involve each partners listing negative qualities of the other partner and the flaws within their relationship, leading to many arguments
-Additionally, inequity is likely to be discussed, with costs being emphasised and the rewards being dismissed as not enough
-The two likely outcomes of this phase:
either the couple will work on their relationship or they will break up
-The threshold of this phase can be expressed as: “ this relationship is not working and I don’t even know if I want to try and save it”
Social Phase
-This is the third phase of the relationship breakdown model
-This is when each partner turns to their family members/ friend for solace or consolation (this can also act as affirmation for their decision
-Family/friends will either be supportive in reinforcing their decision or try to convince the person to work things through with their other half
-At this stage, it is difficult to reconcile the relationship as the couple have essentially “gone public” , airing out their grievances, badmouthing and highlighting to others the many faults of their partner
-If a couple was to get back together at this stage, they would “lose face” and potentially embarrass their friends and family members
-The threshold for this stage may be expressed as “this is really happening”
