Studies on Relationship Breakdown
Psychology: AQA A Level, topic 9.2.8
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).
Research method
- Conducted four self-report studies with 402 undergraduate students.
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.
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.
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.