191513 Aqsa Rehman

Q1) Explain theories of relationship stability.

There are two theories that explain the relationship’s stability. They are the following:
Balance Theory
The Balance Theory suggests that individuals strive for cognitive consistency within
their relationships. This theory proposes that people have a psychological need to maintain a
state of balance or harmony in their attitudes, beliefs, and sentiments. According to the Balance
Theory, relationship stability is influenced by the presence or absence of balance between
positive and negative elements within the relationship.
In the context of relationships, the Balance Theory suggests that individuals seek to
maintain a balanced state by either changing their attitudes or beliefs to align with the
relationship or by altering the relationship itself. For example, if there is an imbalance in the
relationship where there is a disproportionate amount of negative experiences or dissatisfaction,
individuals may be motivated to restore balance by making changes to the relationship dynamics
or seeking alternative options.
Social Exchange Theory
The Social Exchange Theory focuses on the notion of exchange and the assessment of
costs and rewards in relationships. According to this theory, individuals engage in a rational
evaluation of the benefits they receive from the relationship against the costs they incur. If the
rewards outweigh the costs, individuals are more likely to be satisfied and committed to the
relationship, thus contributing to relationship stability.
The Social Exchange Theory recognizes that individuals engage in a give-and-take
process in relationships, aiming to maximize their outcomes and minimize their losses. It takes
into account factors such as satisfaction, equity, and the perception of available alternatives. If
individuals perceive that the benefits of the relationship outweigh the costs and find the
relationship more rewarding compared to available alternatives, they are more likely to maintain
stability and stay committed.
Both the Balance Theory and the Social Exchange Theory offer valuable insights into
relationship stability. The Balance Theory highlights the importance of cognitive consistency and
the need for balance in attitudes and beliefs, while the Social Exchange Theory emphasizes the
evaluation of costs and rewards in decision-making and the influence of satisfaction and
alternative options.
Q2) Explain in detail how a relationship can be nurtured.
1. Enhance your love maps
An individual need to take an interest in the liking and disliking of their partner and stored
the memories of significant events to make the relationship strengthen
 2. Nurture your fondness and admiration
An individual should always look at the positive aspects of their partner personality and
should keep optimism as the center of the relationship to build fondness and admiration
3. Turned towards each other instead of away
The most important thing here is to listen to what your partner is saying to understand what
they are trying to say without actually speaking it. It is basically the principle referred as bids for
attention.
4. Let your partner influence you
It means you do not need to be stubborn and show rigidity and should accept the changes that
are brought by the partner in your life
5. Solve your solvable problems
Five steps are needed in order to solve a problem in a relationship given by Gottmans.
A. Soften your setup
B. Learn to make and receive repair attempts
C. Soothe each other
D. Compromise
E. Tolerance towards each other
6. Overcome grid law
It basically refers to overcoming the differences by acknowledging them through the quality
dialogue between the partners.
7. Create shared meanings
It means that the partner needs to create a culture that is shared by both parties which includes
habits, customs and beliefs.