By examining the opposing tensions faced by the television couple Rachel and Finn from Glee, it is clear that the way partners choose to respond to these tensions determines the success of the relationship. Using dialectical theory, one is able to distinguish three key dialectics partners face, and how these dialects and responses play an important part in the success of the romantic relationship.
Dialectical theory focuses on contradictory and opposing tensions, without trying to resolve them but look at the possible responses to these contradictions. In romantic relationships, partners may find that many of their inner thoughts and feelings contradict each other and cause tension, these are called dialectics. With these dialectics, there …show more content…
Finn finds himself debating whether to continue his relationship with Rachel or end it. Finn says he needs to “ find out who I am now” and “connect with my inner rockstar before I can fully commit to one woman,” which displays his choice of separation. “The inability to respond adequately to autonomy needs surfaces in such reasons for breakup as desired freedom/independence and a sense of entrapment by their relationship” (Baxter & Simon,1993). Finn is wanting to be independant. By choosing to satisfy his need of separation from Rachel and denying the need to be with her, his response to this tension is selection. Finn’s response to this dialectic exemplifies how a partner’s choice determines the success of the relationship, which in this case, is unsuccessful. “Relational well-being is thus sustained through fundamental contradiction in which both autonomy needs and connections needs must be fulfilled” (Baxter & Simon,1993). If Finn were to choose a different response, such as separation, which would partially meet both needs in separate situations, the relationship could continue and grow to be
Dialectical theory focuses on contradictory and opposing tensions, without trying to resolve them but look at the possible responses to these contradictions. In romantic relationships, partners may find that many of their inner thoughts and feelings contradict each other and cause tension, these are called dialectics. With these dialectics, there …show more content…
Finn finds himself debating whether to continue his relationship with Rachel or end it. Finn says he needs to “ find out who I am now” and “connect with my inner rockstar before I can fully commit to one woman,” which displays his choice of separation. “The inability to respond adequately to autonomy needs surfaces in such reasons for breakup as desired freedom/independence and a sense of entrapment by their relationship” (Baxter & Simon,1993). Finn is wanting to be independant. By choosing to satisfy his need of separation from Rachel and denying the need to be with her, his response to this tension is selection. Finn’s response to this dialectic exemplifies how a partner’s choice determines the success of the relationship, which in this case, is unsuccessful. “Relational well-being is thus sustained through fundamental contradiction in which both autonomy needs and connections needs must be fulfilled” (Baxter & Simon,1993). If Finn were to choose a different response, such as separation, which would partially meet both needs in separate situations, the relationship could continue and grow to be