The course will cover mental representations that influence feelings and behavior in relationships. Sex differences in expectations and behavior will be addressed, particularly as these influence relationship satisfaction and stability. Class material will rely heavily on the social psychological literature. Major theoretical perspectives will include those on attachment and social exchange. The following are required texts .
Additional reading is required for the research projects described below.
Each exam will be based on short to moderate length essay questions. Study questions, from which essay questions will be taken, will be provided several days prior to each exam. Missions will be carried out by groups of 5-6 students, who will conduct interviews, analyze responses, and present results in class. Missions will be selected on September 11 and mission papers, written on an independent basis, will be due on the date of the class session following the presentation. You will investigate another area of relationship behavior by reading a minimum of 5 articles that report original research about the behavior in question.