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RELATIONSHIP ESCALATOR [1 record]

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Record 1 2019-09-25

English

Subject field(s)
  • Sociology of Human Relations
DEF

The default set of societal expectations for intimate relationships.

OBS

Partners follow a progressive set of steps, each with visible markers, toward a clear goal. The goal at the top of the escalator is to achieve a permanently monogamous (sexually and romantically exclusive between two people), cohabiting marriage — legally sanctioned if possible. In many cases, buying a house and having kids is also part of the goal. Partners are expected to remain together at the top of the escalator until death. The escalator is the standard by which most people gauge whether a developing intimate relationship is significant, "serious," good, healthy, committed or worth pursuing or continuing.

French

Domaine(s)
  • Sociologie des relations humaines

Spanish

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