Liking and Loving

Today we began the first of 2 days on the topic of liking and loving. While lecture will primarily focus on the “loving” portion, you should be familiar with the other topics mentioned in the textbook. We discussed Evolutionary theory and began attachment theory to the understanding of relationships. On Wednesday, we’ll conclude with Interdependence theory and Self-Expansion Theory.

Overall, you should be familiar with what men and women want from a partner according to each perspective (and whether or not there are sex differences). You should also be familiar with any specific studies mentioned in lecture.

Key terms and questions:

Evolutionary Theory

Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of the Species

Natural Selection vs. Sexual Selection

Inclusive Fitness

Relative Parental Investment

According to the Evolutionary perspective, why do relationships exist?

status cues

Paternity confidence

fertility cues

Attachment Theory

Infant attachment relationships are characterized by what?

Internal working models

Attachment typology: Secure Anxious Avoidant