Chapter 8: Communication and Relational Dynamics

An association in which the parties meet each other's social needs to a greater or lesser degree

A socioeconomic theory of relational development that suggests people seek relationships in which the rewards they receive from others are equal to or greater than the costs they encounter

Communication aimed at keeping relationships operating smoothly and satisfactorily

The first stage in relational development, in which the parties express interest in one another.

The process of getting to know other by gaining more information about them

An early stage in relational development, consisting of a search for common ground. If the experimentation is successful, the relationship will progress to intensifying. If not, it may go no further

A stage of relational development, preceding integrating, in which the parties move toward integration by increasing the amount of contact and the breadth and depth of self-disclosure

A stage of relational development in which the parties begin to take on a single identity.

A stage of relational development in which the parties make symbolic public gestures to show that their relationships exists.

A stage of relational development in which the parties reestablish their individual identities after having bonded together.

A stage of relational development in which parties begin to reduce the scope of their contact and commitment to one another

A stage of relational development characterized by declining enthusiasm and standardized forms of behaviour.

A stage of relational development, immediately prior to terminating, in which the parties minimize contact with one another.

The concluding stage of relational development, characterized by the acknowledgment of one or both parties that the relationship is over.

Inherent conflicts that arise when two opposing or incompatible forces exist simultaneously