Module 4: Intimate & Long-Term Relationships
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this module, scholars will be able to:
- Understand the key principles and concepts of evolutionary theories related to intimate relationships, including sexual selection and sexual strategy theories.
- Analyze the factors contributing to liking and loving in long-term relationships, exploring the distinctions between these forms of affection and their implications for relationship dynamics.
- Evaluate the concepts of closeness and intimacy within the context of interpersonal relationships, examining the various dimensions and manifestations of emotional and psychological proximity.
- Compare and contrast communal and exchange relationships, discerning the fundamental differences in motivations, expectations, and patterns of interaction between these two types of relationships.
- Assess the concept of interdependence and its role in fostering commitment and cooperation within intimate relationships, considering the implications for relationship stability and satisfaction.
- Identify the different attachment styles in romantic relationships and their impact on the formation, maintenance, and dissolution of intimate bonds.
- Critically evaluate the influence of the internet on contemporary relationships, including the opportunities and challenges posed by online interactions and digital communication platforms.
- Analyze the institution of marriage and its significance within the context of long-term relationships, exploring cultural variations, legal implications, and social norms surrounding marital unions.
- Examine the phenomenon of cohabitation as an alternative to traditional marriage, considering the motivations, benefits, and challenges associated with living together without formal matrimony.
- Develop strategies for making relationships last, drawing on evidence-based practices and principles to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and sustain intimacy over time.
KEY TERMS & CONCEPTS
|
|
INTRODUCTION
This module investigates the dynamics of intimate and long-term relationships, exploring the theories and factors that contribute to their development and sustainability. We begin with evolutionary theories that provide a framework for understanding the biological and psychological underpinnings of intimate relationships. The module then examines the distinctions between liking and loving in long-term partnerships, highlighting how closeness and intimacy evolve over time. Concepts such as communal exchange relationships, interdependence, and commitment are discussed to illustrate how partners maintain and deepen their connections. The roles of love and attachment are analyzed, including how these bonds are formed and sustained in both offline and internet relationships.
Transitioning to the specifics of marriage and long-term relationships, the module looks into the growing trend of cohabitation and its implications for long-term partnership stability. The discussion extends to strategies for making relationships last, emphasizing the importance of communication, mutual support, and adaptability. By integrating these various perspectives and insights, the chapter aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of what makes intimate and long-term relationships thrive, offering valuable guidance for those seeking to nurture and maintain enduring connections in their own lives.
