Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2025 - PSYC 362 BLS1

Close Relationships (3)

Class Number: 2195

Delivery Method: Online

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 12 – Jun 20, 2025: Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Rebecca Cobb
    rcobb@sfu.ca
    Office: RCB 8304
    Office Hours: TBA

  • Prerequisites:

    PSYC 201 and 260.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Reviews theory and research on the psychology of romantic relationships. Topics may include relationship theories, communication, social cognitive processes, intimate partner violence, and relationship interventions.

COURSE DETAILS:

As THIS IS a blended online course you will complete modules online (e.g., podcasts, recorded lectures, readings) and you will meet once a week for a live mini-lecture and group work. Attendance at the weekly zoom meeting is required and completion of the group assignments is required. We will examine theories, research, and issues related to romantic relationships. Topics covered include (a) theories of close relationships (e.g., attachment theory, interdependence theory), (b) dyadic processes (e.g., communication, conflict, aggression, social support), and (c) couple interventions (e.g., prevention and therapy).

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

• To introduce students to the major theoretical perspectives in the study of romantic relationships.
• To provide students with an understanding of the research methods and findings relevant to the study of romantic relationships.
• To provide students with the knowledge and skills to critically evaluate claims about relationships.

Grading

  • Module quizzes: 35%
  • Group assignments (x5): 30%
  • Infographic: 10%
  • Final paper: 15%
  • Group peer/self eval: 7%
  • Final refection: 3%
  • The evaluation breakdown is tentative and will be confirmed in the first week of class.

NOTES:

Lectures:
The course materials will be in the form of textbook readings, empirical articles, blog posts, podcasts by relationship scientists, and short video lectures.

Topics:
Relationship theories (e.g., attachment theory), relationship processes (e.g., support, conflict), negative relationship behaviour (e.g., partner violence, infidelity), and relationship interventions. We will cover cutting edge topics in the relationship research world such as consensually non-monogamous relationships and how technology affects relationships.

REQUIREMENTS:

As this is an online course, your pace is partially self-directed. However, you will be required to discuss and prepare multiple assignments with your group members during the weekly synchronous meetings and successful assignments require completion of the modules in a timely way.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Bradbury, T. N., & Karney, B.R. (2024). Intimate Relationships (4th ed.). W.W. Norton & Company.
ISBN: 9781324070672

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.