Evaluation

• Research support - A meta-analysis by Le and Agnew (2003) where 52 studies were reviewed (from late 1970s to 1999) which included 11,000 participants from five countries . They found that satisfaction, comparison with alternatives and investment all predict relationship commitment. These outcomes were true for both men and women across all cultures for analysis, and for homosexual couples. This suggests there is validity to Rasbult's claim that factors are a universally important features of romantic relationships. + rich in diversity.
• Counterpoint - There were many correlations found. eg. in Le and Agnew's research for support. The correlations do not allow us to conclude that the factors identified by the model cause commitment in the relationship. We can suggest that Rasbult's investment model has identified causes of commitment rather than factors associated with it.
• Rasbult's theory of investment explains relationships which involve intimate partner violence (IPV). The question of why any rational person subjected to IPV can be answered. eg. Rasbult and Martz (1995) studied domestically abused women at a shelter. Found that those most likely to return were most commited. Model shows that satisfaction alone cannot explain why couples stay in relationships as there are other factors. and explains real life relations - dynamically generalissable.
• x - Rasbults investment model oversimplifies the process of investment in relationships. The original model may be too simplistic. Few investments are made at the beginning because it doesn't consider early stages. Does not look at the complexity of investment. Partners are motivated to each other to see it work out in the future.
• Reductionism - The model breaks down into factors which contribute to how commitment is the cause of persistence in a relationship.
• Cultural bias - The theory is built upon individualised, western cultures and does not take into account other cultures therefore may not be generalisable.
• Gender bias - There is research support which is highly diverse because it includes hetero and homosexual couples.
• Nature-nurture - The environment is highly likely to impact the relationship. eg. other alternatives present. changing schedules to make the intrinsic investments. Post-break up, potentially having changed dynamic with extrinsic investments and making compromises.