Outline Two Theories Relating To The Formation Of Relationships Essay
(a) Outline two theories relating to the formation of relationships
(b) Evaluate one of the theories outlined in (a)
One of two theories for the formation of romantic relationships is the filter model which was proposed by Kerckhoff and Davis (1962). It claims that people rely on many social and personal factors to filter potential relationships from a ‘field of eligibles’. Different criteria tend to be used at different stages. Initially being social/demographic values, then similarity of attitudes/values and finally complementary of needs. Individuals who meet all the criteria are more likely to be selected as potential partners as relationships with people similar to us are easier while complementarity is also a clear advantage.
The second theory which is the reward/need theory argues that relationships are more likely to be formed if it meets the needs of the partners and provides rewards thus this theory can be explained by referring to the principles of classical and operant conditioning. If a particular individual is associated with pleasant experiences then their company is more likely to be sought. Through the process of classical conditioning, past experience has taught …show more content…
This is how the reward/need theory explains the formation of relationships through operant conditioning. Research has shown however that not all relationships operate on this basis. Clark and Mills (1979) used the term ‘exchange relationships’ to describe these kind of relationships and suggested that as the relationship progresses, rewards begin to be exchanged in a less reciprocal way; becoming ‘communal relationships’ where individuals’ personal gain is not always the only possible
(b) Evaluate one of the theories outlined in (a)
One of two theories for the formation of romantic relationships is the filter model which was proposed by Kerckhoff and Davis (1962). It claims that people rely on many social and personal factors to filter potential relationships from a ‘field of eligibles’. Different criteria tend to be used at different stages. Initially being social/demographic values, then similarity of attitudes/values and finally complementary of needs. Individuals who meet all the criteria are more likely to be selected as potential partners as relationships with people similar to us are easier while complementarity is also a clear advantage.
The second theory which is the reward/need theory argues that relationships are more likely to be formed if it meets the needs of the partners and provides rewards thus this theory can be explained by referring to the principles of classical and operant conditioning. If a particular individual is associated with pleasant experiences then their company is more likely to be sought. Through the process of classical conditioning, past experience has taught …show more content…
This is how the reward/need theory explains the formation of relationships through operant conditioning. Research has shown however that not all relationships operate on this basis. Clark and Mills (1979) used the term ‘exchange relationships’ to describe these kind of relationships and suggested that as the relationship progresses, rewards begin to be exchanged in a less reciprocal way; becoming ‘communal relationships’ where individuals’ personal gain is not always the only possible