PSYC 374 | Psychology of Romantic Relationships

This seminar focuses on several facets of romantic relationships, from the initial stages of attraction and partner selection, to relationship building, maintenance, and dissolution. Other key topics include marriage and divorce, communication, and the qualities of relationships that predict relationship satisfaction and stability. Several theoretical perspectives on intimate relationships are presented in the course, and we also examine the advantages and limitations of different approaches and research methodologies. Particular emphasis is placed on empirical research on the course topics, although we also discuss the role of clinical observations (e.g., based on individual and/or couple psychotherapy) in understanding intimate relationships.