Relationships are fundamental to our daily lives. Critically discuss Social Psychology research and theory in regards to relationship formation, maintenance, and breakdown.

Question 1

What is the social exchange theory and how does it explain relationship formation and maintenance?

Answer 1

The social exchange theory suggests that relationships are based on a cost-benefit analysis such as rewards; companionship and emotional support or costs; time and effort invested. If the benefits outweigh the costs, individuals are more likely to form and maintain relationships.

Question 2

Who discovered the Social Exchange Theory?

Answer 2

Thibaut & Kelly, 1959

Question 3

What research supports the social exchange theory and relates too relationship formation?

Answer 3

Fletcher et al., 1999 conducted research that shows people are attracted to others who offer them rewards and social support.

Question 4

Additional research which supports relationship formation?

Answer 4

Walster et al., 1966 found that individuals are more likely to form relationships with others who are similar in attractiveness, increasing likelihood of attraction and relationship formation.

Question 5

What is the equity theory, and why is fairness important in relationships?

Answer 5

The equity theory emphasizes the importance of fairness in relationships. Rewards and costs are balanced. Imbalances in equity leads to dissatisfaction, and could result in relationship breakdown.

Question 6

Who created the equity theory?

Answer 6

Walster et al., 1978

Question 7

How does effective communication contribute to relationship maintenance?

Answer 7

Effective communication is vital to maintain any relationship, by expressing needs, resolving conflicts and building intimacy (Burleson & Samter, 1990).

Question 8

What is the social penetration theory, and how does it relate to relationship communication?

Answer 8

Relationships progress from superficial levels of self-disclosure to deeper levels of intimacy. Disclosure of personal information creates feelings of trust and intimacy, strengthening the bond between partners.

Question 9

Who created the social penetration theory?

Answer 9

Altman & Taylor, 1973

Question 10

How does active constructive communication impact relationship satisfaction and commitment in terms of maintenance?

Answer 10

Expressing appreciation and validation makes couples more satisfied and committed in their relationships (Gottman & Levenson, 1992).

Question 11

Destructive communication patterns, such as criticism and contempt can do what?

Answer 11

Can erode relationship satisfaction and increase the likelihood of relationship breakdown (Gottman et al., 2002)

Question 12

What are communal relationships, and why are they important for relationship maintenance?

Answer 12

Communal relationships focus on the needs and well-being of the partner, leading to long-term satisfaction and stability.

Question 13

Who came up with the concept of communal relationships?

Answer 13

Clark & Mills, 2017

Question 14

What is the investment model and how does it relate to relationship breakdown?

Answer 14

The model suggests that an individuals commitment to a relationship is influenced by three factors: satisfaction, perceived alternatives, and investments in the relationship. When these levels are low, there are attractive alternatives, breakdown increases.

Question 15

Who created the investment model?

Answer 15

Rusbult et al., 1991

Question 16

What research shows that the presence of negative behaviours, such as infidelity or abuse, significantly increase the risk of relationship breakdown?

Answer 16

Amato & Previti, 2003. Negative behaviours erode trust and undermine the foundations of any relationship.