relationships definitions

relationship formation

the process in which two individuals establish a connection with each other that can potentially lead to a romantic or intimate relationship

evolutionary explanation

the idea that humans have evolved to engage in behaviours that increase their chances of survival and reproduction

mesolimbic dopamine reward pathway

a neural pathway that plays a crucial role in the regulation of reward and motivation in the brain. ventral tegmental area (VTA) and caudate nucleus. release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, motivation, and reward

hormones

chemical messengers that play a key role in regulating various physiological and behavioural processes in the body, including social behaviour and emotions

major histocompatibility genes

a set of genes that code for proteins on the surface of cells

Gottman’s four horsemen

negative communication patterns that can lead to relationship conflict and breakdown

Gottman’s four horsemen - criticsm

 involves attacking a partner's personality or character, rather than focusing on specific behaviours or actions

Gottman’s four horsemen - contempt

involves expressing disrespect, disgust, or disdain for a partner, can be in the form of sarcasm, name-calling, and insults

Gottman’s four horsemen - defensiveness

involves reacting to criticism or perceived attack with a defensive response, can be in the form of making excuses, denying responsibility, or counterattacking

Gottman’s four horsemen - stonewalling

involves withdrawing from a conversation or interaction and refusing to engage with a partner, can be in the form of avoiding eye contact, giving monosyllabic responses, or physically leaving the room