Embedded within the sociocultural context of romantic relationships are features such as race, culture, neighborhoods, the legal system, and governmental policy. Due to the inherent difficulties with studying large structures and systems, little work has been done at the macro level in relationship science. This volume spotlights the complex interplay between romantic relationships and these structural systems, including varied insights from experts in the field. In turn, more diverse and generalizable research programs on the social ecology of relationships can be developed, helping to facilitate advances in theory. Scholars and students of relationship science in psychology, sociology, communication, and family studies will benefit from these discussions. This title is part of the Flip it Open programme and may also be available Open Access. Check our website Cambridge Core for details.

‘This comprehensive volume propels the field of relationship science forward by addressing the contexts in which relationships are embedded. Chapters cover how relationships vary by race, ethnicity, sexual identity, employment, geographic region, and legal and historical periods, and by doing so bring an understanding of relationship functioning to a new level.’

Karen Fingerman - Professor of Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Texas at Austin

‘I couldn’t put the volume down. This collection performs a critical service by centering often overlooked social and cultural forces that infuse romantic relationships. Chapter after chapter brings to light the limitations of research on relationships and underscores the need to look beyond the dyad to understand romantic experiences.’

Denise Solomon - Distinguished Professor of Communication Arts and Sciences, Penn State University

‘Brian Ogolsky has assembled an outstanding cohort of relationship scholars who bring much-needed attention to elements of the sociocultural ecosystems in which personal relationships are embedded and that constantly push and pull at the fabric of these relationships. Readers will find masterful and state-of-the-art reviews of the literature on personal relationships and social forces such as religion, neighborhood, racism, employment, and social class in this must-have volume.’

Chris Segrin - Professor of Communication, University of Arizona