Relationship Breakdown

Romantic relationships do not always last. Understanding why relationships break down and the process through which they dissolve is a key area of the AQA A-Level Psychology specification. This lesson covers the reasons for relationship breakdown, Duck's phase model of dissolution, and Gottman's research on predicting relationship failure.

Key Definition: Relationship dissolution is the process by which a romantic relationship ends. It involves psychological, social, and sometimes legal stages rather than occurring as a single event.

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Reasons for Relationship Breakdown

Duck (2007) identified several factors that can trigger the breakdown of a romantic relationship:

1. Lack of Skills

Some people lack the interpersonal skills necessary to maintain a relationship. They may be poor communicators, struggle to express affection, or fail to manage conflict constructively. Partners of such individuals may feel their emotional needs are not being met.

2. Lack of Stimulation

People expect relationships to develop and change over time. If a relationship becomes routine, predictable, or boring, one or both partners may feel that there is insufficient stimulation. This aligns with social exchange theory — the rewards of the relationship decline.