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The Science of Romantic Relationships

The Science of Romantic Relationships

The Science of Romantic Relationships

Theresa DiDonato, Loyola University Maryland
Brett Jakubiak, Syracuse University, New York
August 2023
Available
Paperback
9781108794961

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    Why do people fall in love? Does passion fade with time? What makes for a happy, healthy relationship? This introduction to relationship science follows the lifecycle of a relationship – from attraction and initiation, to the hard work of relationship maintenance, to dissolution and ways to strengthen a relationship. Designed for advanced undergraduates studying psychology, communication or family studies, this textbook presents a fresh, diversity-infused approach to relationship science. It includes real-world examples and critical-thinking questions, callout boxes that challenge students to make connections, and researcher interviews that showcase the many career paths of relationship scientists. Article Spotlights reveal cutting-edge methods, while Diversity and Inclusion boxes celebrate the variety found in human love and connection. Throughout the book, students see the application of theory and come to recognize universal themes in relationships as well as the nuances of many findings. Instructors can access lecture slides, an instructor manual, and test banks.

    • The 'Is this true for you?' boxes encourage students to compare empirical results with their own experiences
    • The 'In the news' boxes demonstrate how relationship science can be applied to current events and 'Article Spotlights' describe recent innovative papers in accessible language
    • Provides an empirically-based consideration of a variety of different relationship structures and different sexual orientations, showing students how to recognize universalities, while gaining valid insights into relationship variations
    • The 'Research Spotlights' interview relationship scientists about their work and careers, celebrating the many pathways towards studying relationships

    Reviews & endorsements

    ‘What is really fabulous about this book are the many real-world examples of people’s lives that help us situate these concepts into diverse contexts. Didonato and Jakubiak give us a textbook that expertly explains the foundational theories of relationship science while providing critical updates in line with contemporary thinking. It is a book that multidisciplinary learners, as well as established experts, will truly find valuable for their lives and work.’ Joan K. Monin, Yale University

    ‘In addition to being a thorough examination of the literature, The Science of Romantic Relationships is an engaging and enjoyable-to-read textbook that will connect with students. I particularly liked the thought-provoking questions that open each chapter, the spotlights on empirical articles that emphasize the importance of research, and the focus on diversity and inclusion.’ Kevin P. McIntyre, Trinity University

    ‘DiDonato and Jakubiak have produced a truly remarkable resource for relationship scientists. The centerpiece of this masterful text is its careful and methodical approach to understanding diversity, equity, and inclusion. This book will be a game changer for the field!’ Brian G. Ogolsky, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

    ‘This textbook breathes new life into relationship research by providing a diverse array of fresh perspectives on everything from romantic attraction and relationship initiation to relationship maintenance and dissolution. Their commitment to diversity and inclusion is especially laudable. In addition to covering all aspects of modern relationship science, the authors provide a strong chapter on state-of-the-art research methods. This is an ideal textbook for students or anyone seeking an up-to-date, comprehensive overview of scientific research on relationships and the theories that guide it.’ Gregory D. Webster, University of Florida

    ‘This book has several strengths including its clear and persuasive writing style, evidence-based approach, lecture slides, real-life examples, and discussion questions. Students are empowered to challenge and debate topics based on their culture. The chapters allow them to develop an interpersonal sensitivity when working with clients, and what to expect. This textbook covers how to build and maintain relationship and ensures that students understand that dissolution of relationships is normal and will occur. Being aware and able to process what can happen is the key.’ Phyllis E. Gillians, Bowie State University

    ‘I found this text to be highly engaging. Its thorough synthesis of modern relationships research will be invaluable for engaging undergraduate student learners in my course. I particularly admire the authors' use of interesting and timely examples to illustrate various concepts. Simply, I am adopting this textbook because I believe my students will actually want to read it. Moreover, the concepts are presented in a way that is sure to stimulate class discussion.’ Brian N. Chin, Trinity College-Connecticut

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    Product details

    August 2023
    Paperback
    9781108794961
    500 pages
    254 × 203 × 35 mm
    1.35kg
    Available

    Table of Contents

    • About this book: for instructors
    • About this book: for students
    • Acknowledgments
    • Part I. Foundational Ideas of Relationship Science:
    • 1. The scientific study of relationships
    • 2. Guiding theories of relationship science
    • 3. Conducting and evaluating research
    • Part II. Relationship Foundations:
    • 4. Romantic attraction
    • 5. Relationship initiation
    • 6. From fledgling to established relationships
    • Part III. Relationship Management:
    • 7. Biases and illusions
    • 8. Navigating the challenges of interdependence
    • 9. Managing stress and supporting growth
    • 10. Enhancing relationships through positive interpersonal processes
    • 11. Enhancing relationships through sexual intimacy
    • Part IV. Dissolution and Interventions:
    • 12. Relationship dissolution
    • 13. Interventions to repair and strengthen relationships
    • References
    • Index.
      Authors
    • Theresa DiDonato , Loyola University Maryland

      Theresa DiDonato is a professor of psychology at Loyola University Maryland, where she has served as the Director of the Undergraduate Program in Psychology. She serves on the Teaching Committee of the International Association of Relationship Research (IARR) and is a long-time member of SPSP. She is the author of the Psychology Today blog, 'Meet, Catch, and Keep,' which has accrued over thirty million views.

    • Brett Jakubiak , Syracuse University, New York

      Brett Jakubiak is an associate professor of psychology at Syracuse University and won the Syracuse University Meredith Early Performance Award for exemplary teaching. Brett also maintains an active program of research focused on the interpersonal support processes that regulate stress, encourage autonomous goal pursuit, and enhance relationship quality across the lifespan. This research has been funded by the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.