A psychological and social model that explains the continuation of marital and romantic relationships despite problems or low levels of emotional satisfaction. Introduced by social psychologist James Lewinger in the 1960s, the theory focuses on factors that prevent separation or divorce, even if there is dissatisfaction or conflict in the relationship. This theory is an extension of marital devotion and relationship theories, as it states that survival in a relationship is influenced by several factors related to satisfaction, available alternatives, and psychological, social, and economic barriers. This analytic model explains that the continuation of a marital or romantic relationship depends on three main factors: the level of satisfaction, the quality of the alternatives, and the barriers to separation. These barriers play a crucial role in maintaining a partner’s relationship, even if satisfaction is low or there are problems in the relationship.