The Theory of Dyadic Formation and Couples
The word “dyad” in the theory of dyadic formation refers to groups of two people, such as relationships between partners, lovers, close friends, siblings, etc.
The term was coined by German sociologist Georg Simmel, who studied the dynamics of small groups. He discovered that groups of two are different from groups made up of more people.
In principle, the theory of dyadic formation is a conceptual construction of the systemic approach to psychology. Basically, it can be applied to couples and family therapy. It states that every romantic relationship must go through five phases.
Phase one: Perception of similarity and attraction
This stage explains the tendency people have to look for others like them and to concentrate on matching features.
According to the theory of dyadic formation, when people discover similarities, attraction arises. Subsequently, this leads them to seek more and more similarities.
However, compatible traits are opposite. For example, someone who likes to talk makes a good match with someone who likes to listen.
The second phase of dyadic formation: Passion
After the first phase, a couple may feel that they’re alike in many ways and that they understand and complement each other. This leads to enthusiasm and, little by little, to passion.
This stage is all about eroticism and sexuality. After all, both partners’ hormones are going crazy. Furthermore, the feelings are intense and there’s a strong idealization. Unfortunately, this stage doesn’t last very long.
Third phase: Serene infatuation
Gradually, both partners start detecting that paradise is transient and that their lover isn’t as perfect as they once were to them. This leads to the stage of serene love.
During this stage, both partners perceive their own limitations as well as their partner’s. This means that the idealized image they had of each other begins to give way to a more realistic perspective.
Yes, your partner has many defects and yes, they can be annoying sometimes. However, when a relationship has a good foundation, love and passion keep going strong. Otherwise, the feelings will lose intensity.
Fourth phase: Introduction of consciousness
Some define this stage as going from “I love you” to “I want to love you”. In other words, moving from passion, to feeling, and then to a conscious decision. The most important factor here is reason and will.
This is when both partners understand that they’re not perfect but still want to stay together.
The theory of dyadic formation states that, during this stage, our hormones are no longer making our decisions for us.
Fifth phase: Commitment
The fifth and final stage corresponds to the formalization of the relationship for the establishment of a mutual commitment. Moreover, this is the moment when both partners make long-term plans together. In addition, they renounce to living as individuals and give their partner a permanent place in their lives.
The dyad is totally formed at this stage. It’s a system with its own structure, dynamics, norms, routines, dreams, and limits.
The theory of dyadic formation states that relationships survive only if they’ve gone through all the stages. For example, if you go from passionate infatuation to commitment, your relationship probably won’t make it.
