PSY568

039436

The scientific study of intimate relationships has grown dramatically over the last several decades, and is one of the few truly interdisciplinary sciences. The purpose of this course is to introduce you to the rich and diverse field of relationship research. You will learn the guiding theories framing this literature, the unique research methods employed in the scientific study of relationships, and the seminal and often surprising findings that have emerged from this research.

My goal is not for you to simply read about research studies and interesting case examples, but for you to be able to think critically and thoughtfully about the topics we discuss. My hope is that you will truly enjoy the material we discuss in class, and that you will come to appreciate that \"the study of intimate relationships is now a fully-fledged topic of profound importance in the social sciences\" (Karney & Bradbury, 2010, p. xvi).

In terms of skill development, my goals are for you to: (a) learn to think critically about research and theories of intimate relationships; (b) be able to place specific articles and ideas within the broader context of a body of literature; and (c) be able to express those ideas orally and in written form.

The course will be structured in the following way:
- Weeks 1-3: Foundations of intimate relationship research
- Weeks 4-7: Key domains of intimate relationships
- Weeks 8-9: Couple therapy
- Weeks 10-15: Emerging directions in relationship research
- Week 16: Intimate partner violence

Graduate level requirements include additional peer reviewed journal article readings, weekly reaction papers, and a longer final paper than required for undergraduate students.

GRD - Regular Grades A, B, C, D, E

Graduate

PSY468