The Necessary Tensions in Our Lives:A study of the Relational Dialectic Theory

The Necessary Tensions in Our Lives
Leslie Baxter and Barbara Montgomery’s communication theory known as Relational Dialectics, allows us to understand the basic tensions found in all relationships. The central concept of this theory is contradiction or the paradox that is created within relational conflicts. Most intimate relationships ideally wish to achieve closeness, an essence of certainty, and an honorable level of openness with their partner. However, this theory suggests that we are also looking for autonomy, novelty and privacy in our relationships. In the film “White Men Can’t Jump”, the characters of Billy and Gloria are in a loving, yet tension-filled marriage. In one particular argument, conflict ensues over the intimacy which Gloria wants and the independence Billy needs. Through applying the theory of Relational Dialectics, Billy and Gloria’s relational tensions can be classified, and ultimately understood to be typical relational stress.
The ...