Long-term relationships

Psychology

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In many cultures, and especially in the West today, people generally consider that attraction and love alone are insufficient grounds for a lasting marriage or relationship. Several nations have traditions of arranged marriages, where the interests of the two people involved are weighed up before they decide to marry. According to social exchange theories of human motivation, people relate to each other according to a rational cost-benefit calculation. After an initial infatuation, the parties can assess whether it is worthwhile continuing with the relationship and if so, it gradually becomes based on common benefits instead of exchange. Other theories, less sarcastically, suggest that successful relationships tend to follow a similar pattern. The beginning of any relationship is often characterized by intense emotional attraction followed by passionate sex. Over time, passion gradually declines, and eventually, only companionship remains. Commitment takes on a whole new meaning.

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