Duck's Phase model

Question 1

4 stages of relationship breakdown

Answer 1

1. Intra-psychic Phase – One partner is dissatisfied with the relationship but they keep this to themselves (it is not disclosed to their partner)
2. Dyadic Phase – The problem with the relationship is raised openly and discussed between partners. Both partners might think carefully about investments they have in the relationships e.g. house, children, joint possessions etc. There could be reconciliation if the
   partner accepts the validity of the dissatisfied partner’s views and promises to change their behaviour
3. Social Phase – Friends and family become aware of the breakdown of the relationship and give advice and support. For the couple, it is a time of negotiation and settling of arrangements (e.g. financial settlements, custody arrangements for children etc.).
4. Grave Dressing Phase – Each partner comes to terms with the breakdown of the relationship and there is a post-relationship rationalisation of events involving constructing a narrative (their version of why the relationship ended). The individuals involved in the relationship rebuild their lives.

Question 2

Ducks Phase model eval (+)

Answer 2

+ Duck’s phase model was devised in 1982. However, improvements have been made to the model as time has passed. In 2006, a fifth phase was introducedcalled the resurrection phase. This is where the person engages in personal growth and prepares for new romantic relationships.

+ Support for Duck’s phase model comes from the social exchange theory. This theory would support Duck’s phase model and would state that if a relationship has high costs and minimal rewards then the relationship is not worth continuing, but instead would breakdown.

Question 3

Ducks Phase model eval (-)

Answer 3

Akert (1998) criticised Duck’s model for overlooking the initiator’s role in the breakup. Akert found that those who did not initiate the breakup experienced more distress, including loneliness, depression, and anger, while initiators felt less upset but often experienced guilt.

Duck’s model also ignores gender differences. Kassin (1996) found that women often mention emotional dissatisfaction and incompatibility as reasons for breakups and are more likely to want to stay friends. In contrast, men more often mention lack of sex or fun, and prefer a clean break.

the model is arguably overly simplistic, reducing complex breakups into four fixed stages. In reality, relationship breakdowns are unpredictable and may not follow a linear sequence. Some couples go through repeated cycles of breaking up and reconciling.