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CAS 203:  Interpersonal Communication

 Lesson 17:  Introduction to Relationships   

I. Basic Definitions

          A. Interpersonal ----- Noninterpersonal

·        more intimate (lover, best friend, friend) relationships typically have more personalized, idiosyncratic, synchronous, and less difficult communication than less intimate (pal, colleague, acquaintance) relationships. They can be distinguished by their:

breadth - number of topics

depth - proximity to self-concept

duration/frequency

          B. Relational Cultures

·        code –- special words and understandings, name relationship (“this is my friend”), symbols, special names for each other. Relationships become more idiosyncratic as they develop.

·        conversation -– doing things together, privacy, negotiation and

relationship talk

·     Talking about conflict in relational terms helps satisfactorily resolve it.

·     Females are more likely to value talking about relationships

·     Sexual history/safer sex talk

·        community --  shared worldview, relational awareness, label/definition, identity.

C. Relational functions

·        stimulation -- ideas and activities

·        utility -- helps person achieve goals

·        ego support -- helps person develop positive self-image

·        self-affirmation

·        security

          D. Dimensions

·        Affiliation

·        Dominance

·        Involvement

          E. Problematics

·     autonomy-connection

·     novelty-predictablity

·     openness-closedness

·     equity (over/under benefited)

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