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Toward a science of relationship forecasting: Considerations and recommendations
Amie M Gordon1, Katherine R Thorson2, Tatum A Jolink1
1Department of Psychology, University of Michigan.
The American Psychologist
|December 22, 2025
Summary
Relationship science is advancing, using technology to forecast romantic relationship success. New methods aim to predict relationship dynamics with greater accuracy by analyzing complex data.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Data Science
Background:
- High-quality romantic relationships are crucial for health and well-being.
- Decades of research identified general factors influencing relationship formation and maintenance.
- Accurate, targeted prediction of relationship outcomes for specific couples remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of technological advancements in relationship science.
- To propose a new framework for "forecasting" relationship outcomes.
- To outline the data and methods needed for advanced relationship modeling.
Main Methods:
- Gathering dyadic data across various timescales (micromoments to lifespans).
- Incorporating contextual information and individual heterogeneity.
- Leveraging technology like smartphones and artificial intelligence (AI).
Main Results:
- Technological advances enable the collection of complex, dynamic relationship data.
- New approaches can model relationships as complex systems.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for building predictive models.
Conclusions:
- The field is poised to "forecast" relationship outcomes with greater accuracy.
- Pursuing targeted relationship prediction is a valuable scientific endeavor.
- This pursuit will guide future directions in relationship science.
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