Relational Dialectics Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What is relational dialectics?

A method of conflict resolution

A perspective that views interpersonal relationships as constantly changing (correct)

A theory about economic negotiations

A perspective that views interpersonal relationships as static

Who formed the theory of relational dialectics?

Baxter and Montgomery

What are three common dialectical tensions in most interpersonal relationships?

Integration and separation, expression and nonexpression, stability and change

What does Montgomery call relational dialectics?

A dynamic knot of contradictions Signup and view all the answers

What is connection and autonomy in relational dialectics?

The desire to have ties with others versus the need to separate as an individual Signup and view all the answers

What is the internal dialectic for certainty and novelty?

Stability and change Signup and view all the answers

What does internal dialectic of openness and privacy refer to?

The desire to be open versus the desire to be private Signup and view all the answers

What are external dialectics?

Tensions between the couple and the community Signup and view all the answers

What is inclusion and seclusion metaphorically referred to in relational dialectics?

Building a bridge while also creating a boundary Signup and view all the answers

What is the external dialect for the common tension of integration and separation?

Inclusion and seclusion Signup and view all the answers

What is the common tension for romantic relationships?

Openness versus privacy Signup and view all the answers

What is the common tension for a long-distance relationship?

Certainty versus uncertainty Signup and view all the answers

What is a common tension in friendships?

Instrumentality versus affection Signup and view all the answers

What is the theoretical assumption that relationships are not linear?

Relational life is characterized by change Signup and view all the answers

The desire for affection to be genuine versus the desire for affection to be motivated by benefits is known as ____.

Instrumentality versus affection Signup and view all the answers

How do you manage dialectics?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is balance in the context of managing dialectics?

Compromise that promotes ongoing dialogue between partners Signup and view all the answers

What does recalibration refer to in managing dialectics?

Temporarily reframing the situation Signup and view all the answers

What theory reflects a phenomenological tradition?

Intentional analysis of everyday life Signup and view all the answers

What claims does the theory of relational dialectics make?

Tensions are normal and relationships are too messy because things are constantly changing Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Relational Dialectics Overview

Relational dialectics views interpersonal relationships as fluid, emphasizing the management of tensions between partners.
Developed by scholars Leslie Baxter and Barbara Montgomery.

Key Dialectical Tensions

Integration and Separation: Balancing desires for connection with the need for autonomy. For instance, an athlete may want team unity while showcasing individual skills.
Expression and Nonexpression: The struggle between openness in sharing personal information and the desire for privacy.
Stability and Change: The need for predictability in relationships versus a desire for novelty and spontaneity.

Internal vs. External Dialectics

Internal Dialectics (within the couple):
- Connection vs. Autonomy.
- Certainty vs. Uncertainty.
- Openness vs. Privacy.
External Dialectics (between couple and community):
- Inclusion vs. Seclusion: Building connections while maintaining personal boundaries.
- Conventionality vs. Uniqueness: Balancing societal norms and the cultivation of a unique relationship identity.
- Revelation vs. Concealment: Deciding what aspects of the relationship to share or keep private.

Common Tensions in Relationships

Romantic relationships often face Openness vs. Privacy tensions.
Long-distance relationships frequently experience Certainty vs. Uncertainty challenges.
Friendships often involve struggles between Instrumentality vs. Affection, where genuine emotion may conflict with utilitarian motivations.

Managing Dialectics

Techniques include:
- Denial: Ignoring one side of the dialectic.
- Disorientation: Feeling overwhelmed by conflicting tensions.
- Alternation: Switching between opposing pulls.
- Segmentation: Isolating aspects of the relationship for different discussions.
- Balance: Compromising and acknowledging the validity of both sides.
- Integration: Merging opposing forces creatively.
- Recalibration: Reframing perceptions to reduce conflict feelings.

Theory Foundations

Centered on five dialectical strands:
- Dialogue as Constitutive: Communication shapes the relationship meaning.
- Dialogue as Utterance Chain: Relationships consist of ongoing interactions.
- Dialogue as Dialectical Flux: Relationships are inherently complex and dynamic.
- Dialogue as Aesthetic Moment: Introducing novelty for growth.
- Dialogue as Critical Sensibility: Analyzing power dynamics within communications.

Nature of the Theory

This theory is more interpretive and places an emphasis on addressing aesthetic concerns, recognizing the inherent messiness of relationships and the normalcy of tensions.

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Description

Explore the concept of relational dialectics, which emphasizes the dynamic and ever-changing nature of interpersonal relationships. This quiz covers key terms, important theorists, and common dialectical tensions, providing a comprehensive overview of the theory by Baxter and Montgomery. Test your knowledge and deepen your understanding of these relational dynamics.