Discuss 2 Theories of the Breakdown of Relationships

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AO1 1 theory for the breakdown of relationships comes from Rollie and Ducks “Model of a Breakdown”. This theory suggests that a breakdown of a relationship goes through several stages. The first stage is “Breakdown” and this is characterised by an individual internally expressing dissatisfaction with their relationship. The second stage is the “intrapsychic stage”- this is also internal and involves the individual brooding on their partners faults. The third stage is the “dyadic stage”. In this stage individuals have a conversation expressing their disatisfcation. The fourth stage is “social processes”. People inform the outside world e.g. their friends and families- who may offer advice and support. This stage may also speed up the dissolution of the relationship. The next stage is “grave dressing”. This comes after the relationship has ended and involves the individual justifying their actions and creating alliances by telling their story in a positive light. The last stage is “resurrection”- this is where an individual prepares for future relationships, redefines their values and learns from past mistakes. A02 A strength of this model is that it has received empirical support, adding weight to the theory. For example, Tashario and Fraizer, in a survey of undergraduates, found their answers gave support tp the grave dressing and resurrection stages. However, as this research only looked at undergraduates it may be that the research doesn’t apply to older couples- it may be that the grave dressing stage is less likely to apply to older couples as they may not be inclined to “gossip” about their relationship with friends. Therefore, it could be suggested that the model needs further estabilishing to include older couples. I major weakness of research on breakdown of relationships is that it is affected by ethical issues which may limit our knowledge. For
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