1. the disorder, doubts, and problems relationship partners may experience as they transition from casual dating to more committed forms of involvement. Relationship turbulence is caused by the disruption of ordinary routines, lifestyles, and plans that occurs when people become interdependent, spending more time together and beginning to coordinate their activities and goals. It also reflects uncertainty and possible ambivalence about the relationship. Relationship turbulence usually abates as partners become settled in their routines and more confident about their future as a couple.

2. the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral disruption that occurs in a relationship during a significant life transition, such as when one partner returns from deployment or when a couple copes with infertility.