6 Qualities that Define Close Relationships
- Frequency: how often you interact
- Intensity: prevalence of the relationship in your mind
- Diversity of contacts: utilized mediums of communication
- Level of intimacy: amount of self-disclosure
- Importance: how much attention a relationship is given
- Satisfaction: how much fulfillment you get form the relationship
Attraction Theory
Explains the 3 primary forces that draw people together
- Proximity
- Attractiveness: physical, social, task
- Similarity: shared values
Uncertainty Reduction Theory
Argues that relationship development is facilitated or derailed by participants’ efforts to reduce uncertainty about each other through reciprocated self-disclosure
Predicted Outcome Theory
Argues that reducing uncertainty can lead to repulsion. People stop interacting when they learn something about their partner that leads to a negative predicted outcome.
Social Exchange Theory
explains the development and longevity of relationships as the result of individuals’ abilities to maximize the rewards and minimize the costs of their relationship
Equity Theory
Argues that people are most satisfied in a relationship when they perceive it to be fair → costs are balanced by the rewards
Knapp’s Stage Model
Views relationships as occurring in stages that are marked by different styles of communication.
5 Stages Towards Commitment
- initiating
- experimenting
- intensifying
- integrating
- bonding
5 Stages Towards Termination
- Differentiation
- Circumscribing
- Stagnating
- Avoiding
- Terminating
Turning Point Model
Argues that couples move both toward and away from commitment over the course of their relationship. Turning points are events that increase or decrease commitment
Social Penetration Theory
Proposes that relationships develop through increased self-disclosure
3 Dimensions of Self Disclosure
- Breadth: range of topics
- Depth: details and intimacy
- Frequency: how often
3 Relational Dialects
- Autonomy and Connection
- Expressiveness and Privacy
- Change and Predictability
5 Romantic Relationship Disengagement Strategies
- Negative identity management
- De-escalation
- Justification strategies
- Positive tone strategies
- Avoiding
4 Friendship Disengagement Strategies
- Withdrawal/Avoidance
- Machiavelliane Tactics
- Positive tone strategies
- Openness
5 Aversive Communication Behaviors
- Deception
- Truth Bias
- Jealousy
- Interpersonal Violence
- Sexual Coercion
3 Social Influences on Relationships
Laws: certain relationships may not be legal
Institutional Practices: business and religious institutions create their own policies about acceptable relationships
Cultural Norms: influence what the perception of a “normal” relationship is
