Intentions and Expectations of Men and Women, Partners in Couples WIth Different Status of Close Relationships

The results of a study of the intentions and expectations of men and women, partners in couples of close relationships of different status (romantic relationships, unregistered (“civil”) marriage, official marriage) are presented. The study uses an original method of experimental modeling of the situation of social exchange of tangible and intangible resources. As a result of the study, significant differences were found in the ratio of intentions and expectations of partners, men and women in close relationships of different status. Comparison of indicators of intentions and expectations of men and women in couples with different status of close relationships indicates that there are both general, independent of the status of relationships, and specific differences characterizing different forms of close relationships. Comparing the indicators of intentions and expectations of partners in couples with different status of close relationships allows us to talk about a certain dynamics or trend of changes in these indicators at different stages of these relationships. The results of the discriminant analysis show that indicators of intentions and expectations are good predictors of partners' readiness to transition to marital relations. The obtained results can be used for scientific substantiation of practical recommendations for managers and specialists involved in the support and development of the family institute of modern Russian society, as well as in the practice of individual and family counseling.