Relationship Science: Integrating Evolutionary, Neuroscience, and Sociocultural Approaches.

Abstract

Relationships are the most important factor affecting life quality and satisfaction. Yet, the underlying mechanisms of relationships are still relatively unclear. What constitutes a healthy relationship, and might this depend on sociocultural context? How are relational behaviours influenced by biological and evolutionary processes and their interaction with context? Different theories and methods guiding relationship research yield different answers to these questions. To improve our understanding of this important topic and related questions, it is vital to integrate different theories and methodologies. This book brings together researchers from psychology and neighbouring disciplines whose work sheds light on the topic of relationships. It focuses on evolutionary, neuroscience, and sociocultural perspectives - three relatively new interdisciplinary approaches at the forefront of relationship science. Individual chapters present research findings and relate these findings to other disciplinary and theoretical approaches. They consider not only mating or romantic relationships, but also familial relationships, friendships, and other forms of relationship - including those that produce abuse, conflict, and stress. The result is an innovative and comprehensive view of relationship science. Researchers from a wide variety of disciplines as well as practitioners will find the book enlightening.