Introducing Interdependence Theory Constructs - Julie Verette Lindenbaum
Description: This in-class activity engages students in defining the components of Interdependence Theory, as well as the formulas used to define Satisfaction, and Dependence. Once defined, students create and discuss four hypothetical couples who vary on levels of Satisfaction and Dependence.
Topic: Interdependence Theory

Symbolic Interactionism Activity in Family Theories - Fitzpatrick
Description: Students work together to create meaning
Specific Topic: Symbolic Interactionism
Other information: Link includes article outlining activity

Couple Fight Skit - Cheryl Harasymchuk
Description: Students use the Specific Affect Coding Manual to develop a script for - and then act out - a couple fight (each partner displays an emotion, as indicated in the manual)
Specific Topics: Research methods; process; Operational definitions; Coding of constructs; Communication
Other Info: Specific Affect Coding Manual description chapter available online (Coan & Gottman, 2007)

Desert Island Desire - Molly Metz
Description: In class exercise discussing desired attributes in a partner if stranded on a desert island - short term and long term
Specific Topics: attraction, mate selection, social motives, reinforcement theory, mating strategies

Lie Detection Game - Rody Miller
Description: PowerPoint slides to present a lie detection game.
Specific Topics: Self-presentation; lie detection

Lie Detection Activity - Rody Miller
Description: Student volunteers asked to tell the truth or lie; class makes judgments regarding if students are telling the truth or not Specific Topics: Self-presentation; lie detection

Matching Game - Ellis and Kelley
Description: Article describing in-class activity where students receive mate value and have to find a match
Specific Topics: Assortative mating; matching; attraction

Overconfidence Demo - Rody Miller
Description: Activity where stuents make guesses about questions (e.g., population of the US) 90% certainty
Specific Topic: Overconfidence

Role-Playing Workshop - Silvia Donato
Description: Role playing activities for a couple, parents, and family
Specific Topic: Communication

Attachment Introduction - Gary Lewandowski, Jr.
Description: An interactive ball tossing activity with patterned responses to simulate the experience of secure, avoidant, and anxious attachment.
Specific Topic: Origins and consequences of attachment
Other Information: Materials needed - 3 tennis balls

First Date Video Analysis - Kevin McIntyre
Description: Students watch a video clip of a couple on a first date, provide "gut" feelings about the couple, identify corresponding variables. At the end of the activity students propose testable hypotheses linking variables and date outcomes.
Specific Topic: Demonstration of the research process
Other Information: Suggestions for student reflections at various timestamps.

Hand Gestures - Lucia F. O'Sullivan
Description: Class demonstration and discussion of connotations associated with various hand gestures.
Specific Topic: Nonverbal communication; Cultural differences in meaning of gestures.

Mere Exposure - Moran Mizrahi
Description: A powerpoint demonstration of the Mere Exposure effect using a set of characters; some of the cards occur with greater frequency. Liking for characters is assessed at the end of the activity.
Specific Topic: Familiarity and liking