Great Myths of Intimate Relationships: Dating, Sex, and Marriage

Intimate relationships is an area heavily cloaked in misconceptions, many of which are relayed as concrete truths; for example, opposites attract, preventing disagreements is vital to a good relationship, and having children can save a marriage. Even some of the most intuitive theories have proved to be wrong or at least much more complicated than the prevailing wisdom, and partially or completely contradicted by scientific research. Great Myths of Intimate Relationships is structured around demystifying the fabrications and stereotypes that dominate the popular understanding of love. Drawing on the very latest studies, and making use of empirical research, the book lays out, reviews and debunks some of the most persistent misconceptions through examining their origins and developments. Johnson explores the current research on topics such as attraction, sex, love, internet dating, and heartbreak, encouraging critical thinking about the science of intimate relationships. Written in a style that is both compelling and succinct, Great Myths of Intimate Relationships is an ideal resource for the interested reader as well as undergraduates of related courses.

Matthew D. Johnson is Professor of Psychology at Binghamton University, State University of New York. His research in Clinical Psychology examines the developmental course of marital distress and family dysfunction. In doing so, his work seeks to determine the mechanisms by which relationship distress and dissolution follow the positive emotions of courtship. In 2013, he was awarded the Chancellor′s Award for Excellence in Teaching from the State University of New York.