How to Revise Relationships — AQA A-Level Psychology
Examination of the psychological mechanisms underpinning human romantic relationships, encompassing evolutionary origins of mate selection, social exchange theories of maintenance, and the socio-cognitive processes involved in relationship dissolution. The study integrates biological imperatives with cultural variations to evaluate the universality of attraction and the impact of digital communication on modern interpersonal dynamics, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding human social bonding.
Examiner Tips for Relationships
- Ensure you can clearly distinguish between social exchange theory and equity theory
- Use specific terminology when discussing virtual relationships, particularly the 'absence of gating'
- When evaluating theories, always link back to the specific context of romantic relationships
- Be prepared to apply knowledge of research methods to the studies cited in this topic
Common Mistakes in Relationships
- Confusing the different phases in Duck's model of relationship breakdown
- Failing to distinguish between the absorption-addiction model and attachment theory explanations for parasocial relationships
- Over-relying on descriptive accounts of theories rather than evaluating their empirical support
- Misapplying the filter theory stages (social demography, similarity in attitudes, complementarity)
Key Marking Points
- Evolutionary explanations for partner preferences (sexual selection and reproductive behaviour)
- Factors affecting attraction (self-disclosure, physical attractiveness/matching hypothesis, filter theory)
- Theories of romantic relationships (social exchange theory, equity theory, Rusbult’s investment model)
- Duck’s phase model of relationship breakdown
- Virtual relationships in social media (self-disclosure, absence of gating)
- Parasocial relationships (levels, absorption-addiction model, attachment theory explanation)