Why relationships end
One of the most hurtful and unforgivable acts that can occur in a relationship, often detrimental to it, and may lead to termination.
What is Infidelity and Interest in a Third Party?
Occurs when individuals fail to discuss important issues with their partners.
What is stonewalling?
Involves reflecting on the negative aspects of the relationship and comparing these flaws with costs of leaving the relationship.
What is the intrapsychic processes phase?
Involves clear verbal messages that the relationship is over.
What are direct strategies?
Spouses get absorbed in their everyday lives--working and raising children--and forget to give each other the attention they need and deserve.
What is growing apart?
Occurs when one person makes a demand and the partner responds by withdrawing from communication.
What is demand-withdrawal sequence?
Occurs when dissatisfied partners communicate negative thoughts and feelings, and attempt to negotiate and reconcile the differences to avert a relationship breakup.
What is the dyadic processes phase?
More subtle, indirect, and sometimes ambiguous messages, including nonverbal communication. Most dating and casual relationships are ended this way.
What are indirect strategies?
Occurs when a person’s positive illusions about their partner and relationships fade
What is relationship disillusionment?
Low levels of supportiveness--and particularly a lack of listening.
What is Lack of intimacy and connection?
“Going public” about the distress and problems within one’s relationship
What is the social processes phase?
Involves one person deciding to break up.
What are Unilateral strategies?
Promotes good feelings and prevents breakups from happening.
What is love?
Behaviors including spending less time, avoiding each other in public settings, and making excuses for not going out together.
What is withdrawal?
Communication that focuses on coping with a breakup in a socially acceptable manner.
What is the grave-dressing processes phase?
The joint decision to terminate the relationship.
What are Bilateral strategies?
Associated with dissatisfaction in relationships, which is why planning novel, exciting activities and being spontaneous once in a while are keys to a happy relationship.
What is boredom?
Partners who stay together, rather than break up, report much higher levels of self-disclosure early in their relationships.
What is openness?
The end of a relationship marking the beginning of something new
What is the resurrection processes phase?
Occurs when a person simply disappears from someone’s life as if they were never a part of it and can take several forms.
What is ghosting?