A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What has Giddens suggested has diminished the influence of romantic love in modern relationships?

1. Increased parental involvement

2. Conflict and challenges within relationships

3. Return to traditional norms

4. Lack of emotional connection

The correct answer is: Conflict and challenges within relationships

Giddens suggests that the influence of romantic love in modern relationships has diminished due to the increasing prevalence of conflict and challenges. In contemporary society, relationships are often subject to various stresses, such as financial pressures, work-life balance issues, and differing expectations between partners. These factors can lead to a focus on practical issues rather than emotional connectivity or the ideal of romantic love. As individuals navigate these complexities, the notion of romantic love as a stable and central tenet in relationships may weaken, as partners confront the realities of maintaining their bonds amidst external and internal stressors. This shift recognizes that love is not just an emotional experience but is interwoven with social conditions and dynamics, which might lead to prioritizing compatibility and partnership stability over the romantic ideals previously emphasized. The other options suggest influences such as increased parental involvement or a return to traditional norms, which may not fully capture the modern-day complexities and pressures that can overshadow romantic love. Similarly, a lack of emotional connection, while relevant, does not directly address the broader societal challenges that Giddens highlights as diminishing the influence of romantic love in the context of contemporary relationships.