Module 2d. Transcript - Social Learning Theory

These flashcards cover the key concepts, research methods, and limitations of Social Learning Theory as applied to romantic relationships.

Social Learning Theory

A theory suggesting that partners try to maximize outcomes by pursuing rewards and avoiding costs, with a focus on how concrete behaviors influence the relationship.

Behavioral Theorists

Researchers who believe that internal values and expectations are only important to the extent that they influence concrete, observable behaviors.

Positive Behavior Cycle

A process where kindness and care lead to increased trust and support, which in turn ensures the continuation of kind behavior.

Coercion Theory

A concept suggesting that partners inadvertently reinforce negative behaviors by giving in only when a partner's negative behavior becomes particularly intense.

Escape Conditioning

A process where a behavior is reinforced because it allows an individual to escape an aversive stimulus, such as giving in to a partner to stop an argument.

Observational Studies

A research paradigm where couples are recorded discussing a disagreement to allow researchers to code verbal and non-verbal behaviors.

Physiological Measures

Data such as heart rate or blood pressure used in observational studies to see how partners respond to behaviors like blaming or name-calling.

Negative Reciprocity

A pattern common in distressed couples where one partner's negative behavior is met with a negative response from the other, leading to escalation.

Interpretation Limitation

A limitation of Social Learning Theory noting that people with different levels of self-esteem or security may interpret the same behavior in very different ways.

Communication Skills Limitation

A limitation of Social Learning Theory where it fails to explain the origins or development of the communication skills individuals bring into a relationship.

Directionality Problem

The difficulty in determining whether couples are unhappy because of poor communication or if they communicate poorly because they are already unhappy.

Relationship Fluctuations

A phenomenon involving 'rough patches' or 'ups and downs' that Social Learning Theory has difficulty explaining, especially when couples emerge more satisfied afterward.