Theorizing Contemporary Intimate Couple Relationships and Relationship Histories

Abstract

To provide a framework for our analyses, in this chapter we examine changes in and theories about contemporary intimate relationships. Thus, as a setting for some of the later chapters that outline our empirical results, here we discuss the theoretical literature on the changing nature of intimate couple relationships (e.g. the effects of increased choice that are said to accompany increased individualization), the changing patterns of such relationships (e.g. shifts between relationship formations based on marriage and cohabitation) and changes in the course that such relationships take (e.g. how relationships move through phases that can lead to relationship dissolution and the search for a new relationship). Thus change is a focus of this chapter and is central to discussion about intimate couple relationships in Western societies. Change is a key feature of existing theoretical material (drawn from both sociology and related disciplines) that is of relevance to an understanding of the past lives, present situations and future plans of formerly partnered people.