Relational Development: Stages in Intimate Dyads

As we saw in our discussion of relational profiles, relationships are in a constant state of flux. Over time, couples redefine themselves, moving toward and away from deeper involvement. In an attempt to understand more about the ways in which relationships change, several theorists have looked for global patterns of relational development. Although these theorists recognize that each couple’s relational journey is slightly different, they have nonetheless attempted to chart the paths that couples take into and out of intimacy.

Paths To and From Intimacy

Mark Knapp provides us with a ten-step model of the way relationships grow and dissolve.