An examination of relationship disengagement: Perceptions, breakup strategies and outcomes

Machiavellianism and romantic relationship dissolution

“…suggesting that the break up is temporary). A range of factors may influence the selection of a break up strategy such as the nature of the relationship (Banks, Altendorf, Greene, & Cody, 1987;Collins & Gillath, 2012) which subsequently impact the partner's reaction (Lambert & Hughes, 2010). Despite the frequency with which relationships are dissolved and the consequences of this dissolution, few studies have considered the manner in which individual differences (rather than characteristics of the relationship itself) influence the selection of a break up strategy or break up related distress.…”

Emotional and Cognitive Coping in Relationship Dissolution

“…This could be due to the initiator's ability to process the changes that occurred before the breakup actually took place. The initiator can analyze the costs involved including network influence, dyadic adjustment, trust, and partner alternatives whereas the person "left" would not get a chance to process this ahead of time, leading to a need for forced emotional processing (Banks, Altendorf, Greene, & Cody, 1987). In further support of this, VanderDrift, Agnew, and Wilson (2009) found that one partner's contemplation of breaking up mediated the relationship between diminishing commitment and initiating the dissolution.…”

Being Secure Means Being Willing to Say You're Sorry: Attachment Style and the Communication of Relational Dissatisfaction and Disengagement

“…At least five types of relationship disengagement strategies can be pursued: de-escalation, behavioural de-escalation, negative identity management, positive tone, and justification (Banks, Altendorf, Greene, & Cody, 1987;Cody, 1982;Krahl & Wheeless, 1997). De-escalation involves ending the relationship but leaving open an opportunity for reconciliation and the possibility of a renewed relationship in the future.…”

“…Positive tone is a strategy that involves expressing grief over ending the relationship, showing concern for the partner, and making an attempt to avoid hard feelings. Justification involves stating reasons and rationalisations for ending the relationship, but without necessarily addressing a partner's feelings, needs, or desires (Banks et al, 1987;Cody, 1982;Krahl & Wheeless, 1997).…”

“…This instrument has been used in past research studies of relational dissatisfaction (Gaines & Henderson, 2002;Gaines et al, 2000;Sinclair & Fehr, 2005). The measure of disengagement is based on the work of Cody (1982), as developed by Banks, Altendorf, Greene, and Cody (1987) and by Krahl and Wheeless (1997). This interval-level scale measures the communication strategies of de-escalation, behavioural de-escalation, positive tone, justification, and negative identity management on 5-point Likert-type scales (1 = I definitely did or said this; 5 = I definitely did not do or say this).…”