Overview For This Assessment. You Will Answer A Serie 071901

Overviewfor This Assessment You Will Answer A Series Of Short Answer

Overview for this Assessment, you will answer a series of short-answer questions to the following four prompts listed: 1) Consider a relationship 2) Identify “coming together” and “coming apart” stages, 3) Identify a dialectical tension and 4) Develop two strategies for improvement. Submission length: 4 items, with responses ranging in length from 1–2 paragraphs per item.

Paper For Above instruction

In this assessment, I will analyze a personal or observed relationship by addressing four specific prompts. First, I will consider a relationship that is meaningful to me, detailing some context about its nature and significance. Second, I will identify the stages of “coming together” and “coming apart” within this relationship, drawing on relevant communication theories and models. Third, I will pinpoint a dialectical tension that exists within this relationship, exploring how opposing needs or desires are negotiated by the individuals involved. Fourth, I will propose two practical strategies aimed at improving the relationship, considering communication approaches or behavioral adjustments that could foster greater understanding and stability.

Understanding relationship development requires an awareness of the phases individuals typically go through as they establish and maintain bonds. The “coming together” stage often involves initiation, exploration, and integration, where partners develop closeness and trust (Baxter & Montgomery, 1996). Conversely, “coming apart” can involve stages of differentiation, separation, and termination, which may be influenced by external pressures or internal conflicts (Knapp & Vangelisti, 2009). Recognizing these stages enables individuals to better navigate the complexities of relationships and address issues proactively.

The dialectical tensions are inherent in many relationships, representing ongoing conflicts between opposing needs. A common tension is between autonomy and connectedness, where individuals desire independence but also seek intimacy and closeness (Baxter, 2011). For example, one partner may feel the need to assert independence, while the other seeks greater closeness, creating a dynamic that requires negotiation and adaptive communication strategies. Addressing this tension involves acknowledging both needs and finding a balance that satisfies both parties.

To improve the relationship, I would recommend two strategies. First, implementing open and honest communication practices can help partners articulate their needs and concerns more effectively. Active listening, empathy, and clarification can mitigate misunderstandings and foster trust. Second, establishing shared goals and routines can strengthen bonds and create a sense of stability. Engaging in collaborative activities and regular check-ins helps partners align their expectations and reinforce commitment. These strategies can promote healthier interactions and contribute to the resilience of the relationship over time.

References

• Baxter, L. A., & Montgomery, B. M. (1996). Relating: Dialogicality, presentness, and power. In V. M. Manusov & J. W. Patterson (Eds.), The SAGE handbook of interpersonal communication (pp. 233–254). Sage.
• Baxter, L. A. (2011). Relating: To connect in a disconnnected world. Interpersonal Communication Book.
• Knapp, M. L., & Vangelisti, A. L. (2009). Interpersonal communication and human relationships. Pearson.
• Hall, J. A., & Knapp, M. L. (2013). Nonverbal communication in human interaction. Wadsworth.
• Altman, I., & Taylor, D. A. (1973). Social penetration: The development of interpersonal relationships. In R. G. M. (Ed.), The handbook of social psychology (pp. 561–575). McGraw-Hill.
• Markus, H., & Nurius, P. (1986). Possible selves. American Psychologist, 41(9), 954–969.
• Gross, R. (2002). Handbook of communication approaches to conflict. Jossey-Bass.
• Sternberg, R. J. (1986). A triangular theory of love. Psychological Review, 93(2), 119–135.
• Burke, P. J. (1991). Identity process theory: A dynamic approach to identity and social action. Advances in Group Processes, 8, 261–286.
• McAdams, D. P. (2001). The life story Interview. In P. McAdams, T. Little, K. D. Josephs, & L. P. Corser (Eds.), The stories we live by: Personal myths and the making of the self (pp. 3–15). Guilford Press.