Relationships — A-Level Psychology Revision
Revise Relationships for A-Level Psychology. Step-by-step explanation, worked examples, common mistakes and exam-style practice aligned to AQA, Edexcel and OCR.
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- Relationships in A-Level Psychology: explanation, examples, and practice links on this page.
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- Students revising A-Level Psychology for UK exams.
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- Practice is aligned to major specifications (AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC, Eduqas, Cambridge International (CIE), SQA, IB, AP).
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Go to SchizophreniaWhat is Relationships?
The topic of relationships in A-Level Psychology explores the formation, maintenance, and breakdown of romantic relationships, including theories such as the social exchange theory and equity theory. Students will also study concepts related to attraction, including filter theory and the role of physical attractiveness.
Board notes: This topic is covered by AQA, Edexcel, and OCR, with each board emphasizing different aspects such as cultural variations (AQA) or the role of communication in maintenance (Edexcel).
Step-by-step explanationWorked example
When answering an essay question on the social exchange theory, start by defining the theory, then discuss the concepts of rewards, costs, and comparison levels. Use research studies like Thibaut and Kelley's work to support your points, and conclude by evaluating the theory's limitations, such as its reductionist viewpoint.
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Common mistakes
- 1Confusing the social exchange theory with the equity theory when explaining relationship maintenance.
- 2Failing to apply relevant research studies to support points in essay questions.
- 3Overlooking cultural differences in relationship models when discussing theories and their applicability.
Relationships exam questions
Exam-style questions for Relationships with mark-scheme style solutions and timing practice. Aligned to AQA, Edexcel and OCR specifications.
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Step-by-step method
Step-by-step explanation
4 steps · Worked method for Relationships
Core concept
The topic of relationships in A-Level Psychology explores the formation, maintenance, and breakdown of romantic relationships, including theories such as the social exchange theory and equity theory. …
Frequently asked questions
What is the social exchange theory in relationships?
The social exchange theory suggests that relationships are maintained through a cost-benefit analysis where each partner seeks to maximize rewards and minimize costs.
How does the filter theory explain attraction?
The filter theory posits that people select partners by applying a series of filters, such as social background and shared values, to narrow down potential mates.