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Intimate Relationships
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Intimate Relationships

Second Edition
February 2026 | SAGE Publications, Inc
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This textbook truly accomplishes all of the author's goals mentioned in the Preface. It does an excellent job introducing students to the foundational theories of relationships (attachment, evolutionary, interdependence). The chapters are organized in a logical order. The book is very engaging, and each section includes excellent critical thinking questions. This book is an excellent choice for any instructor wishing to foster critical thinking skills in their students! 

--Maya Aloni, Western Connecticut State University 

Maya Aloni
Western Connecticut State University
Pre pub Review

I am looking forward to using this book in my Interpersonal Relationships course. It does a great job covering key relationship theories and research. I know my students will enjoy all ofthe interactive components (e.g., personal assessment scales, application activities, critical thinking, research highlights, pop culture references, visuals, practice questions, etc.) 

-- Anomi G. Bearden, Red Deer Polytechnic 

 

Anomi G. Bearden
Red Deer Polytechnic
Pre pub Review
Key features
NEW TO THIS EDITION: 
  • New co-author Gary Lewandowski Jr. brings fresh expertise and perspective to the second edition, enriching the text with expanded coverage of relationship science and student-centered pedagogy. In addition to his work as an award-winning teacher and researcher, Lewandowski is a prolific author of textbooks, the blog "The Psychology of Relationships," and the bestseller Stronger Than You Think: The 10 Blind Spots That Undermine Your Relationship...and How to See Past Them. 
  • A brand-new chapter on Modern Dating in a Digital Age. 
  • Reorganized content: the final chapter from the first edition has been split in two, Breakup and Enduring Love, for deeper coverage. 
  • Making Use of Relationship Science, a new feature in every chapter, distills research into practical, actionable tips for improving relationships.
  • Expanded coverage of topics such as non-monogamous relationships, relationship violence in LGBTQ+ couples, gaslighting, incels, and emotional capital. 
  • Updated popular culture references, including Bridgerton, Love is Blind, queer cinema, and parasocial relationships. 
  • Over 500 new references and full alignment with the APA 7th edition inclusive language style guide.  

KEY FEATURES:
  • A conversational tone and inclusive language make the book highly accessible, approachable, and enjoyable for readers of all backgrounds.
  • Chapter-opening Big Questions identify what forthcoming content will address; Big Questions are answered in summaries at the conclusion of chapters.
  • Learning objectives list what students should be able to accomplish upon chapter completion; objectives are revisited at the conclusion of chapters alongside relevant key terms.
  • Relationships and Popular Culture sections tie chapter material to a TV show, movie, song, or book to help students see class topics in the everyday world around them.
  • Research Deep Dive sections examine a study in terms of research methods, statistical analysis, and conclusions to help students see the science within the study of intimate relationships.
  • Check Your Understanding multiple choice questions with accompanying answer keys throughout chapters help students see if they are retaining the material.
  • Application Activities and Critical Thinking Questions throughout chapters include class activities, essay prompts, and discussion questions that serve as a built-in way for instructors to incorporate discussions and assignments.
  • What's My Score? features prompt students to complete a self-report measure of a variable and check their results, making the material personally relevant.

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