9.2.8

Studies on Relationship Breakdown

Test yourself

Rusbult and Zembrodt (1983) & Akert (1992)

Rusbult and Zembrodt (1983) investigated whether the 4 primary relationship decline reactions (exit, voice, loyalty and neglect) were related to Rusbult’s investment model of commitment (satisfaction, investment and viable alternatives).

Illustrative background for Research methodIllustrative background for Research method ?? "content

Research method

  • Conducted four self-report studies with 402 undergraduate students.
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Results & conclusion

  • Results
    • When satisfaction was high, voice and loyalty were more probable, when satisfaction was low, exit and neglect were more likely.
    • Similarly, high levels of investment also promoted voice and loyalty and discouraged exit and neglect. The availability of attractive alternatives discouraged loyalty and promoted exit strategies.
  • Conclusion
    • The research supported the investment model of commitment.
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Evaluation

  • Strengths
    • Standardised questionnaire and interview schedule.
    • Easy to replicate.
  • Limitations
    • Student relationships will typically have lower levels of investment and commitment than adult relationships.
    • Demand characteristics.
    • Social desirability.
Illustrative background for **Akert (1992)**Illustrative background for **Akert (1992)** ?? "content

Akert (1992)

  • Akert (1992) found that the partner who did not instigate the break-up tended to be more affected (sad and upset) than the partner who did instigate the break-up.
  • He also found in 1998 that women are more likely to want to remain friends after a break-up, whilst men want to move on.
  • Both findings have implications for Duck’s stage theory, in particular the grave-dressing and resurrection stages.

Jump to other topics

1Social Influence

2Memory

3Attachment

4Psychopathology

5Approaches in Psychology

6Biopsychology

7Research Methods

8Issues & Debates in Psychology (A2 only)

9Option 1: Relationships (A2 only)

10Option 1: Gender (A2 only)

11Option 1: Cognition & Development (A2 only)

12Option 2: Schizophrenia (A2 only)

13Option 2: Eating Behaviour (A2 only)

14Option 2: Stress (A2 only)

15Option 3: Aggression (A2 only)

16Option 3: Forensic Psychology (A2 only)

17Option 3: Addiction (A2 only)

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