The Science of Romantic Relationships

Following the lifecycle of romantic relationships, this textbook offers a fresh, diversity-infused introduction to relationship science.

Theresa DiDonato (Author), Brett Jakubiak (Author)

9781108794961, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 31 August 2023

500 pages
27 x 18 x 3.1 cm, 0.82 kg

'This book has several strengths including its clear and persuasive writing style, evidence-based approach, lecture slides, real-life examples, and discussion questions. Students are empowered to challenge and debate topics based on their culture. The chapters allow them to develop an interpersonal sensitivity when working with clients, and what to expect. This textbook covers how to build and maintain relationship and ensures that students understand that dissolution of relationships is normal and will occur. Being aware and able to process what can happen is the key.' Phyllis E. Gillians, Bowie State University

Why do people fall in love? Does passion fade with time? What makes for a happy, healthy relationship? This introduction to relationship science follows the lifecycle of a relationship – from attraction and initiation, to the hard work of relationship maintenance, to dissolution and ways to strengthen a relationship. Designed for advanced undergraduates studying psychology, communication or family studies, this textbook presents a fresh, diversity-infused approach to relationship science. It includes real-world examples and critical-thinking questions, callout boxes that challenge students to make connections, and researcher interviews that showcase the many career paths of relationship scientists. Article Spotlights reveal cutting-edge methods, while Diversity and Inclusion boxes celebrate the variety found in human love and connection. Throughout the book, students see the application of theory and come to recognize universal themes in relationships as well as the nuances of many findings. Instructors can access lecture slides, an instructor manual, and test banks.

About this book: for instructors
About this book: for students
Acknowledgments
Part I. Foundational Ideas of Relationship Science: 1. The scientific study of relationships
2. Guiding theories of relationship science
3. Conducting and evaluating research
Part II. Relationship Foundations: 4. Romantic attraction
5. Relationship initiation
6. From fledgling to established relationships
Part III. Relationship Management: 7. Biases and illusions
8. Navigating the challenges of interdependence
9. Managing stress and supporting growth
10. Enhancing relationships through positive interpersonal processes
11. Enhancing relationships through sexual intimacy
Part IV. Dissolution and Interventions: 12. Relationship dissolution
13. Interventions to repair and strengthen relationships
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Social, group or collective psychology [JMH]