ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the role of interpersonal rewards in determining the ways in which relationships develop, how they are strengthened and built up, and how they can weaken and end. Numerous researchers in the social sciences are in almost unanimous agreement that commitment is the key anchoring variable in accounting for stability within relationships. Based on a theoretical examination of commitment in terms of rewards and costs, consolidation strategies is possible to highlight a number of skills or strategies which can serve to strengthen partnerships. The chapter examines the evolution of relationships, using Levinger's five-stage model, together with the particular skills and strategies that are required to deal successfully with each. Levinger's five-stage model, which suggests that relationships can be classified into acquaintance, build-up, consolidation, deterioration and ending phases, each with its own unique characteristics, is adopted as a useful framework.
