CONTENT

Duck’s phase model

The end of a relationship isn't a one off event but a process that takes time and goes through distinct phases

4 stages in relationship breakdown

Intra- psychic, dyadic, social and grave- dressing

Intra- psychic phase

Cognitive processes occurring within the individual- partner thinks on reasons for dissatisfaction, centring it around the other’s shortcomings

Dyadic phase

Interpersonal processes between the 2 partners-  can’t avoid not talking about it so series of confrontations over a period of time where relationship and dissatisfaction discussed

Social phase

Wider processes involving couples social networks- break up is made public and partners seek support from friends/family and forge pacts

Grave- dressing phase

Aftermath- spinning a favourable story about break up to save face and maintain positive reputation usually at the expense of the other partner