Health & Society

What We Do for Love: A Professor’s Insights on Valentine’s Day Expectations

Monday, February 12, 2018, By Kathleen Haley

Do you love the idea of a perfect Valentine’s Day with chocolates, roses and that special dinner? But your partner not so much?

Laura VanderDrift Portrait

Laura VanderDrift

Couples at odds over the most romantic of days might want to find the give and take in their expectations, according to Laura VanderDrift, assistant professor of psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences.

VanderDrift researches the personal dynamics of close relationships and what factors can help predict relationship outcomes, most notably behaviors that can break apart a relationship and outcomes regarding a person’s health.

She shares some thoughts to keep in mind for maintaining harmony.