SECTION A.
Expectations are an emotional anticipation or belief of an occurrence that may take place in the future.
Expectations are an essential part of any relationship; they shape the dynamics, set the tone of the relationship, and cultivate an atmosphere of support and safety.
What Are The Theories Behind This Worksheet?
Expectancy theory assumes that people are motivated to engage in certain behaviours because of their expected outcomes.
Expectancy theory separates the decision-making process into;
- Expectancy: efforts will lead to high performance
- Instrumentality: the performance will lead to predicted outcomes
- Valence: predicted outcomes are desirable
How Will This Worksheet Help You?
Expectations are essential for a couple’s healthy relationship and well-being.
This worksheet will help couples have open and honest communication with each other. It will also help couples reinstate quality time together.
How Should You Use This Worksheet?
Couples should use this worksheet to set realistic expectations in their relationship.
This worksheet should help couples create a safe relationship built on love, care, affection, and loyalty.
SECTION B.
Couples Expectations Worksheet
- What expectations do you have for your relationship?
| PARTNER A | PARTNER B |
- How do you show compassion and empathy for each other?
| PARTNER A | PARTNER B |
- How do you respect each other in your relationship?
| PARTNER A | PARTNER B |
- How do you consider each other’s differences in your relationship?
| PARTNER A | PARTNER B |
- Identify ways of spending quality time together.
- Identify ways of practising empathy towards each other’s experiences, feelings and needs to build trust?
| PARTNER A | PARTNER B |
- How do you show affection and appreciation for each other in your relationship?
| PARTNER A | PARTNER B |
- What are your expectations about intimacy in your relationship?
| PARTNER A | PARTNER B |
- What are your expectations about money in your relationship?
| PARTNER A | PARTNER B |
- What are you grateful for about your partner today?
This should be done every day before going to bed.
| PARTNER A | PARTNER B |
REFERENCE:
Anchor Life Therapy. (© 2022). Expectations in a Relationship: Reasonable vs Unreasonable. Available at: https://anchorlighttherapy.com/expectations-in-a-relationship-a-reality-check/. [Accessed November 29, 2022]
The Decision Lab. (© 2022). Expectancy Theory. Available at: https://thedecisionlab.com/reference-guide/psychology/expectancy-theory. [Accessed November 29, 2022]
You can download this worksheet here.