This chapter focuses on the importance of social cognitive research in intimate relationship contexts, and the way in which this contributes meaningfully to other scientific domains. We begin by touching upon the historic emergence of social cognitive research in the field of intimate relationships. We then outline a general social cognitive model from which to study intimate relationships, focusing on the nature and structure of lay relationship theories, and the reciprocal relationship between emotions and relationship cognitions. Research regarding the bias and accuracy of relationship judgements is then discussed, incorporating arguments from an evolutionary psychological standpoint. A proposed solution to the apparent conundrum at the heart of this work is proposed through introduction of two concepts, namely: directional bias and tracking accuracy. We then outline the nature of attachment working models, contrasting dimensional versus hierarchical approaches. The contribution of these models to explanations, predictions, and behavioural regulation attempts within relationships is then explored, with reference to both conscious and unconscious levels of processing. Finally, we examine mate selection, focusing on the contributions of evolved dispositional states and environmental contexts, with reference to the Big Three categories of mate selection criteria (warmth–trustworthiness, attractiveness–vitality, and status–resources).