A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What social pressure can lead to failed relationships, according to Giddens?

1. The need for independence

2. The quest for perfection in relationships

3. Desire for emotional stability

4. Social isolation

The correct answer is: The quest for perfection in relationships

The idea that the quest for perfection in relationships leads to failed partnerships is rooted in Giddens' examination of modern intimacy. In contemporary society, individuals often have heightened expectations regarding their relationships, influenced by cultural norms and the representation of love and partnership in media. This quest for an idealized version of love can create pressure on individuals and couples, resulting in dissatisfaction when reality fails to meet these inflated expectations. As people search for the "perfect" partner or relationship, they may overlook the importance of compromise and acceptance of imperfections within a partner. This relentless pursuit can cause individuals to continually reassess their relationships, often leading to dissatisfaction or the feeling that something is missing. When faced with imperfections or challenges, rather than working through them, individuals may conclude that their relationships are not good enough, ultimately resulting in their dissolution. The other options highlight important factors in relationships as well but do not specifically align with the concept Giddens presents regarding perfectionism as a cause of dissatisfaction. For instance, the need for independence may inform personal choices within a relationship but is not directly cited as a primary cause of relationship failure in the same way perfectionism is. Similarly, a desire for emotional stability can be a goal in relationships, but when set against unrealistic expectations, it