A mathematical model of sentimental dynamics accounting for marital dissolution.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Marital dissolution is ubiquitous in western societies. It poses major scientific and sociological problems both in theoretical and therapeutic terms. Scholars and therapists agree on the existence of a sort of second law of thermodynamics for sentimental relationships. Effort is required to sustain them. Love is not enough.

Methodology/principal findings

Building on a simple version of the second law we use optimal control theory as a novel approach to model sentimental dynamics. Our analysis is consistent with sociological data. We show that, when both partners have similar emotional attributes, there is an optimal effort policy yielding a durable happy union. This policy is prey to structural destabilization resulting from a combination of two factors: there is

SUBMITTER: Rey JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2847599 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature