social phase

• What does this phase focus on in a relationship breakdown?

  Wider processes of public relationship breakdown
• Why is this phase psychologically important?

  It publicizes the distress of partners
• What happens when partners tell friends and family about their issues?

  Others become involved in the relationship
• How can friends and family influence the relationship breakdown?

  They can be judgemental or offer support
• What effect can judgemental friends or family have on the relationship?

  They may speed up the end of the relationship
• What type of information might friends or family provide that affects the relationship?

  Previously unknown information about behavior
• How might partners respond to the involvement of friends and family?

  They may try to forge alliances
• What social implications are negotiated during this phase?

  Decisions about who has the house
• What happens if the relationship is not saved in this phase?

  It goes to the final stage
• What is the threshold phrase indicating the final stage?

  ‘I mean it’