The core idea of Dialectical Theory is that the tensions we experience in our relational lives are ongoing challenges, but they are fundamental. Leslie A. Baxter and Barbara M. Montgomery’s Dialectical Theory assumption is that communication is vital in order to respond and negotiate through these tensions. The theory is not only tied to romantic relationships, but also applies to friendships and family relationships. One who believes experiencing some type of opposition or conflict in a relationship is a failure need to understand this interpersonal theory states, “The idea of dialectics is that they are natural, normal and even inevitable dynamics in human relationships” (Schrodt, noes). Because they are inevitable, there are ways to manage
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The negotiation of the first tension is, “The tension between autonomy and connection happens whenever partners experience opposing desires to get closer to each other and to maintain their independence at the same time” (Nasser, Dabbous, & Baba, 2013). In simplest terms, it can be experienced through how much time relational partners would want to spend together versus the time they would like to be alone or with others. The second tension is novelty versus predictability or also known as stability versus change. This tension, “describes the opposition between permanence and immanent change” (O’Boyle, 2014). Relational partners look forward to the predictability of a regular routine they maintain, but may sometimes also feel the need for change and spontaneity. Relationships require both certainty and uncertainty in order to uphold the ups and downs that come with being connected to somebody. Lastly, “The openness–closedness competing discourse refers to the need for disclosure between relationship parties, but this openness creates vulnerabilities for the self, other, and relationship, thus necessitating the competing force of closedness” (Wozniak, Lollis, & Marshall, 2013). Relationships are built on honesty and disclosure, yet as human’s we have our right to privacy so it becomes a personal decision as to when, if ever, is the right time to be completely open with one
The negotiation of the first tension is, “The tension between autonomy and connection happens whenever partners experience opposing desires to get closer to each other and to maintain their independence at the same time” (Nasser, Dabbous, & Baba, 2013). In simplest terms, it can be experienced through how much time relational partners would want to spend together versus the time they would like to be alone or with others. The second tension is novelty versus predictability or also known as stability versus change. This tension, “describes the opposition between permanence and immanent change” (O’Boyle, 2014). Relational partners look forward to the predictability of a regular routine they maintain, but may sometimes also feel the need for change and spontaneity. Relationships require both certainty and uncertainty in order to uphold the ups and downs that come with being connected to somebody. Lastly, “The openness–closedness competing discourse refers to the need for disclosure between relationship parties, but this openness creates vulnerabilities for the self, other, and relationship, thus necessitating the competing force of closedness” (Wozniak, Lollis, & Marshall, 2013). Relationships are built on honesty and disclosure, yet as human’s we have our right to privacy so it becomes a personal decision as to when, if ever, is the right time to be completely open with one