When W. H. Freeman originally published this book in 1983, the scientific study of relationships was in its childhood. 'Relationship science' has since become an established endeavor in psychology, sociology, and other social and behavioral science disciplines—complete with its own organizations, journals, book series, handbooks, and sourcebooks. A lengthy new introduction by Ellen Berscheid and Harold Kelley documents the evolution of the field.



From the Introduction to the Percheron Press Edition . . .

'[W]e speak for all of the authors of Close Relationships when we express our great pleasure in seeing our book back in print again, for we believe its republication reflects the growing importance of the relationship field. We also believe its key messages are as sound and relevant today as they were at the time of the book’s initial publication nearly two decades ago.'