Beyond Viral Trends: The Real Psychology Behind Relationship Theories

In an era of viral relationship theories, two popular concepts, the "Orange Peel theory" and "Bird Theory," have captured public attention. However, these internet phenomena are rooted in a legitimate psychological framework known as "Bid Theory," developed by the renowned Gottman Institute. "Bid Theory" posits that the success of long-term relationships hinges on how partners respond to each other's small, everyday attempts to connect, referred to as "bids for attention or affection." These bids can be as simple as pointing out a bird, asking about one's day, or requesting a small favor like peeling an orange. According to the Gottman study, relationships thrive when partners consistently "turn towards" these bids, meaning they acknowledge and engage with them. Conversely, relationships are more likely to falter when bids are frequently ignored or rejected. The research indicates that couples and even friends who regularly accept and engage with these bids demonstrate stronger, more resilient connections, leading to greater happiness and longevity in their relationships.