Relational Communication: Nurturing Romantic Relationship
Choose TWO of the following prompts and write 750-1,000 words for EACH prompt. For each prompt, you will need to choose a different theory or set of concepts to address that come from class readings or lectures/discussions throughout the semester.
1. If people only knew [communication theory/concept], then they would have enduringly good romantic relationships.
2. If people only knew [communication theory/concept], then they would have enduringly good friendships.
A total of Six scholarly references needed (THREE for EACH section).
Relational Communications Essays
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Nurturing Romantic Relationship
Cultivating a successful romantic relationship entails creating a mutual give-and-take framework between the partners. The benefit of being in a romantic relationship might be companionship, love, and sexual satisfaction. Romantic relationships are often eluded with individuals facing challenges that can be mitigated with a deeper understanding of fundamental communication theories. Self-disclosure, although increasingly constrained in the initial stages of a romantic relationship, is vital for ensuring that partners get closer and connected. According to the theory of self-disclosure, people gradually reveal more and more about themselves to each other as a relationship progresses. This paper discusses the roles of social exchange and self-disclosure theories in good romantic relationships.
Good romantic relationships can be more enduring and sustainable when individuals know the self-disclosure and social exchange theories. Social exchange theory will help individuals understand the dynamics of all romantic relationships because it posits that relationships are akin to economic transactions, and this calls for a constant habit of evaluating the costs and benefits involved. Individuals should, therefore, consciously or subconsciously weigh their investment time and energy against the opposite direct rewards of companionship, love, and sexual satisfaction (McNulty et al., 2021). Time spent on relationships is a cost that may be directed towards alternative pursuits like career development and entertainment via sporting activities. On the other hand, the associated benefits in romantic relationships, like emotional support and shared memories, must outweigh the individual perceived cost so that the decision to continue staying in that relationship is reinforced and validated.
The social exchange theory emphasizes the balance between the costs and benefits of any romantic relationship. This means that when