relationships

Question 1

Gottman’s love lab

Answer 1

• Pioneered a range of data collection and analysis methods, including; filmed couples, positive and negative interactions, talk table, rating dial during conflict discussions, coding systems for positive/negative affect, physiological measures, longitudinal studies, oral history
  4 horseman of the apocalypse (Gottman)
• 1.criticism= attacks the character, using I statements- verbally attacking personality or character
• 2. defensiveness= self-protection, playing the victim
• 3. contempt= expression, sarcasm, eye rolling, sneering- attacking sense of self with an intent to insult or abuse
• 4. stonewalling=listener withdrawals without resolving anything
• If these occur in your relationship, it is likely to break down

Question 2

homosexual vs heterosexual relationships

Answer 2

• Gottman et al., (2003)- compared 40 homo and 40 hetro couples
• Comparable relationship quality and satisfaction
• Affect during conflict for the receiving partner in a homo relationship was positive and negative for the hetro
• During conflict homo use fewer hostile tactics than hetro

Question 3

predicting divorce with the 4 horsemen

Answer 3

• Gottman, Leveson (2000)
• Longidunal study over 14 years (heterosexual couples)
• Found the presence of the 4 horsemen they would divorce after an average of 5.6 years
• Emotional disengagement presence= divorce an average of 9.4 years
• Divorce predictions had an accuracy of 93%

Question 4

what is the magic ratio in an argument?

Answer 4

• During conflict= 5:1 (5 positive for one negative during a conflict)
• Outside of conflict- 20:1

Question 5

explain the social exchange theory in relationships

Answer 5

• Relationship between 2 people is created thru a process of cost-benefit analysis
• Cost reward ratio
• Minimax- strive to maximize rewards and minimize costs
• Profit- rewards exceed costs (we want to be in profit)
• Comparison used to assess profit
• 1- comparison level (deserved reward amount)
• 2- comparison level of alternatives (would other relationships be more profitable than current)

o Important component of social exchange theory is comparison level- this is a standard that develops over time, allowing us to judge whether a new relationship is profitable or not. Peoples comparison levels are products of their past experiences with other people
o This theory accommodates variations in relationships- for example, differences in how people perceive rewards and costs ( a hug may seem rewarding to some but not others)

Question 6

when do relationships breakdown

Answer 6

• Levinger (1980) identified 4 signs:
• A new life is the only solution
• Alternatives are available
• Expectation that the relationship will fail
• Lack of commitment

Question 7

explain the reinforcement theory in relationships

Answer 7

o Byrne and Clore 1970= reinforcement affect model= humans associate another person with other positive or negative aspects of the immediate environment. Highlights how background (neutral) stimulus is also associated. When associated with punishment background stimulus will be negatively valued. Griffit and Veitch 1971- found simple background features such as feeling hot or crowded can diminish attraction to a stranger