Sunday, June 8, 2008

Managing Relationships

I'm sure many people out in the world are engaged in some form of interpersonal relationship.I'm not an exception too. Communication in relationships is important to individuals because this will allow effective management of their relationship. (DeFluer et al) Let's have an in depth look on the varying types of communication principles in interpersonal relationships.

While in a relationship, it is deemed that face-to-face communication is the richest medium of interaction between a couple.Without face to face communication, it is hard to maintain a steady relationship (e.g. long distance) and i have seen friends' whose relationships were dissolved in army or because they went abroad to study. As we study in communications, this is known as dyadic communication.

Have you ever wondered what makes us attracted to another individual? Is it the person's physical attributes that click with us or their charisma?Under the theory of relational formation and development, there are a few sub categories that the formation of relationships can be categorized into.

They are:
-Physical Appearance
-Similarities (values,preferences,beliefs)
-Complementarities (differences but help the couple function better)
-Exchange (give and take)
-Proximity (less intimidation and uncertainty)
-Reciprocity and liking (self disclosure, mutual love)
-Competency (richer/smarter)

It's quite a load right? Maybe now we can see our personal relationships in a different light:) I know i will. That's all for this week's class review!

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi Mr Potato, I feel that one of the best form of communication amongst couples is through their actions. My boyfriend and I experience one of the greatest forms of closeness and intimacy when we find the time to be close to one another and share experiences and activities.I like that you've broken down relationships into factors and listed them down, however, I like having my relationship romantic and emotional. The EQ in the IQ if you know what i mean. =)

Baby Tomato said...

We have about the same topic as you. Basically, I don't believe there are theories behind the formation of a relationship. It's quite ridiculous although there are some truths in it.

Mr. Potato said...

Haha such a critical view baby tomato! However, i do agree i have described relationships in a rather technical manner haha... but i do respect and acknowledge that having a spontaneous and meaningful relationship would be ideal for most people.

jane- said...

I guess to some extent, the human brain is rather amazing isn't it? To be able to analyse that many things in just an instant after looking at the person, or just hanging out with another person for maybe a few minutes, everything is analysed and set in your mind. coooooool. hahaha. :D

Anonymous said...

Hi Uncle Ken! I am a super noob in affairs of the heart. But if you ask me abouyt friendships, I think I have quite a bit of exprience. I've had Sworn sisters, best friends, acquaintances, enemies, WORST enemies and people I want to kill. You cannot be friends with the whole world. And your circle of friends is limited in your lifetime. It takes time, luck and a lot of effort to find someone who truly clicks with you. Your theory is amazing but as for me, whenever I meet people I can't click with, I just stop talking to them. I think my networking is disastrous. Lol!