Interpersonal Relationships

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Hey Y'all, Relationships require effort and communication, or they risk coming apart. Knapp’s Relational Model provides a framework for understanding how relationships develop and change over time. My relationship with K, a single mother, follows the progression of Knapp’s model. We first met at a video game club, where small talk during meetings evolved into daily texting. Over time, we reached the Integrating stage, which our lecture described as merging lives through shared activities, rituals, and social networks. K and I have strengthened our bond by meeting each other’s families and discussing how to support one another’s goals. Unfortunately, our hectic schedules have limited the amount of face-to-face time we can share, making online communication essential.

(Sus & Drew, 2023)

Online communication has played a pivotal role in maintaining and deepening our relationship during this stage. Due to our busy lives, we rely on iMessage and FaceTime. Virtual dates have become a creative and meaningful substitute for in-person interactions, allowing us to connect emotionally despite physical distance. Consistent communication, such as thoughtful texts, emojis, and video calls, helps us sustain our bond. However, mediated communication is not without challenges. Misinterpretations are more likely when the tone or context is unclear. For instance, a message intended as a joke might be misread as sarcastic, leading to unnecessary conflict. I’ve utilized perception checking to overcome these hurdles, a four-step process for understanding others more accurately (Pearson et al., 2021). This involves describing behavior, expressing feelings, offering multiple interpretations, and seeking clarification. By utilizing this strategy, I’ve navigated misunderstandings and maintained harmony in our relationship. How can we further refine our use of technology to nurture relationships without losing the richness of in-person interactions?


 

References

Pearson, J. C., Nelson, P. E., Titsworth, S., & Hosek, A. M. (2021). Human communication (7th ed.). Mcgraw-Hill Education.

 Sus, V., & Drew, C. (2023, March 14). Knapp’s Relationship Model: 10 Stages and Examples (2023). Helpfulprofessor.com. https://helpfulprofessor.com/knapps-relationship-model/

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