theories of romantic relationships: investment model

• rusbults investment model:

  • satisfaction level, comparison with alternatives, investment size
  • commitment level
  • relationship maintenance
• satisfaction + comparison with alternatives:

  • satisfaction based on rewards/costs + getting more from relationship than they expected based on past experiences
  • satisfaction based on CL + comparison with alternatives - identify whether needs are met outside relationship
• investment size:

  • extent + importance of resources associated with relationship
  • intrinsic investments = any resources put in relationship e,g money, energy
  • extrinsic investments = resources acquired since relationship started e.g car, shared memories
  • satisfaction high, alternatives less attractive, investment size large, predict partners will be committed
• relationship maintenance mechanisms:

  • accommodation - act to promote relationship, no retaliation
  • willingness to sacrifice
  • forgiveness
  • positive illusions - unrealistically positive about partner
  • ridiculing alternatives - negative about tempting alternatives
• EVALUATION: research support

  • le + agnew - metanalysis 11000 5 countries - predicted commitment, more commitment, more stable
  • outcomes true for men, women, hetero, gay couples from all cultures
  • some validity to model, factors are important features universally
• EVALUATION: explains abusive relationships

  • surprising that people subjected to violence continue commitment
  • rusbult + mars - battered women in shelter, mostly likely to return to partner reported greatest investment + no alternatives
  • victims dont have to be satisfied to stay
• EVALUATION: oversimplifies investment

  • goodfriend + agnew - more to investments than resources put in, early stages = few investments
  • extended model - includes investment partner makes in future, motivated to stay together to see plans work out
  • limited explanation, fails to understand complexity of investments