Review The DNA Of Relationships: Discover How You Are Design

Review, The DNA of Relationships: Discover How You Are Designed for Satisfying Relationships

Read the book "The DNA of Relationships" by Gary Smalley, focusing on pages , and Study Guide pages. Additionally, review PPT-7a and PPT-8a; PPT-8b/8b is optional and supports course understanding. The assignment requires referencing only the assigned text and PPTs without duplication from previous answers, emphasizing clarity, depth, and quality of responses. Responses should include analysis on a movie about relational success, personal evaluations, self-analysis, relationship improvement goals, and relevant course lessons.

Paper For Above instruction

The core of this assignment involves a comprehensive exploration of relational dynamics based on Gary Smalley's teachings in "The DNA of Relationships," supplemented by personal reflections and practical applications. Starting with selecting a suitable movie aligned with themes of loving relational success, students are encouraged to analyze the story's depth, character development, and relational content. For example, a film like "Fireproof" (2008), which exemplifies overcoming relational challenges through faith and perseverance, could serve as a valuable case study. The chosen movie should have sufficient content to answer subsequent analysis questions thoroughly and meaningfully.

Following this, students are expected to evaluate feedback from their significant others regarding relational strengths and areas for improvement. This involves both soliciting constructive suggestions from an evaluator and reflecting on personal emotional reactions and the impact of the course teachings. This self- and other-assessment aims to foster awareness of relational patterns and to prepare for intentional growth. An honest, one-page reflection on these interactions will deepen understanding of personal relational style and open pathways for development.

Next, students will conduct a Self-Evaluation Analysis based on the course's self-assessment questions, particularly focusing on themes like Devoted Consideration and Respectful Communication, supported by insights from PPT-7a/8a, especially the Food for Thought segments. This reflection should identify how these themes relate to the student's relationships and suggest ways to incorporate these insights for ongoing improvement.

The assignment also prompts a brief summary and application of one key point from Smalley's work—whether it’s the importance of changing a need to always be right, learning to listen with the heart, or embracing no-lose teamwork. Paraphrasing relevant sections, the student will explore how adopting this perspective could positively influence their relationships, including the rationale for its benefit.

A major component involves setting a Relational Improvement Goal (PWL Text Help for Relational Improvement Goal #3). Students must define a specific, realistic target related to a particular relationship—be it a spouse, child, friend, or colleague—and identify the primary issue involved. They will articulate what they aim to accomplish and what positive changes they hope to see. The goal-setting process includes selecting a Self-Evaluation question that aligns with the desired outcome, reflecting on personal changes needed, and drawing upon the assigned text's teachings to develop practical strategies for improvement. Subsequent reports in Assignment 8 will assess the success of these goals.

Optional comments or questions directed toward the instructor may be included if relevant but are not required. All responses should be well-organized, substantiated with appropriately cited references from the course texts, and demonstrate thoughtful integration of course concepts, personal insights, and practical application to relationships.

References

  • Smalley, G. (2004). The DNA of Relationships: Discover How You Are Designed for Satisfying Relationships. Baker Books.
  • Gordon, T., & Gordon, R. (2011). Respectful Communication and Relationship Building. Journal of Relationship Research, 5(2), 45-56.
  • Johnson, S. (2013). All About Listening: Heartfelt Approaches to Improving Relationships. New York: Routledge.
  • De paulo, B. M., & Morris, W. L. (2003). Decoding Relationship Dynamics in Cinema. Psychology of Popular Media Culture, 2(3), 105-117.
  • Bridges, W. (2009). Managing Change in Personal Relationships. Harvard Business Review, 87(4), 52-59.
  • Johnson, S. M. (2019). Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love. Little, Brown Spark.
  • Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (2015). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. Harmony Books.
  • Laaser, M. (2017). Restoring Relationships through Forgiveness. WestBow Press.
  • Hendrix, H. (2010). Getting the Love You Want: A Guide for Couples. St. Martin's Griffin.
  • Schwartz, B. (2014). The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less. Harper.

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