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Factors of Relationship Commitment

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Rusbult's Investment Model explores the dynamics of romantic commitment, emphasizing satisfaction, alternatives, and investment as key factors. This psychological framework, developed in the 1980s, helps explain why people stay in relationships, considering the impact of emotional bonds, shared experiences, and tangible assets. It builds upon social exchange theory, offering insights into the complexities of relationship stability and the reasons behind enduring partnerships.

Exploring Rusbult's Investment Model of Commitment in Relationships

Rusbult's Investment Model, formulated by psychologist Caryl Rusbult in the 1980s, is a theoretical framework that seeks to explain the factors that contribute to the commitment and longevity of romantic relationships. According to the model, three main elements determine relationship commitment: satisfaction with the relationship, the quality of available alternatives, and the extent of investment in the relationship. Satisfaction is derived from the degree to which a partner's needs are met within the relationship. The consideration of alternatives involves evaluating the benefits of potential other partners compared to the current one. Investment encompasses all the resources put into the relationship, including tangible assets like shared property and intangible elements such as emotional bonds and shared experiences.
A couple sitting on a wooden bench in a park at sunset, with a large tree, a quiet pond and swimming ducks.

The Interplay of Satisfaction, Alternatives, and Investment in Commitment

The Investment Model posits that commitment to a relationship is a dynamic process influenced by satisfaction, the presence or absence of attractive alternatives, and the level of investment. High satisfaction with the relationship typically fosters commitment, while the perception of attractive alternatives can undermine it. However, the model particularly highlights the role of investment in fostering commitment. Investments can be both tangible, such as financial assets and shared children, and intangible, like emotional support and shared history. The more significant the investments, the higher the costs of leaving the relationship, which can lead to a stronger commitment, even in the face of dissatisfaction or relationship challenges.

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00

Three key factors influencing the durability of love bonds are relationship ______, alternative quality, and investment magnitude.

satisfaction

01

Investment in a relationship includes both material assets like shared ______ and non-material aspects such as emotional ties.

property

02

Investment Model: Commitment Factors

Commitment influenced by satisfaction, alternatives, investments.

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