Relationship Analysis Paper
Purpose
The purpose of this assignment is to apply the concepts or theories discussed in class to a long-term interpersonal relationship that you have the relational goal to maintain.
Compare and contrast interpersonal communication choices.
Evaluate the communication process in interpersonal contexts.
Model competent (appropriate, effective & ethical) interpersonal communication.
Overview
Every relationship is different and therefore your analysis will be unique to your relationship. Although I cannot provide an exact list of questions for you to answer in your analysis there are some basic factors that influence all relationships. Questions 1-5 are pertinent to all relationships.
The first part of your paper describes the nature of the relationship and your interpersonal goals for the relationship (include relational, self-presentation, and instrumental goals). This part may take more than one paragraph. You will probably write at least one paragraph describing the relationship and you will probably write a paragraph describing your relationship goals.
The next part of the your paper addresses how your relationship with this person meets the definition of interpersonal communication? Interpersonal communication can be defined as a dynamic form of communication between two (or more) people in which the messages exchanged significantly influence their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships. (McCornack, 2015, p. 9) What aspects of the interpersonal communication in this relationship need improvement (yourself and/or the relationship?) Hint: (McCornack, 2015, p. 9) is an example of APA format and can be used in your paper as one of the four citations.
The next part of your paper will provide two specific examples of how the relationship has influenced your self-concept. Each example should be a paragraph. Using the terms, looking-glass self, self-fulfilling prophecy, self-esteem and/or self-discrepancy theory may be appropriate in this section of the paper.
In the next paragraph or two of the paper you will analyze your satisfaction with the depth and breadth of disclosure in the relationship? Why or why not? Provide specific examples to support your answer. You may be able to use Brene Brown, The Power of Vulnerability or The Color Code personality assessment in this section of the paper.
Finally, you will address how perceptual barriers have affected your relationship with this person, either in the short-term or long-term? Which have you successfully overcome, at least occasionally? Which ones are the most difficult for you to overcome? Why? Use specific examples to support your answer. Using terms such as fundamental attribution error, actor-observer effect, self-serving bias, and/or halo or horn effect may be appropriate in this section of the paper. Questions 6 and 7 may help you in your consideration of perceptual barriers.
Task
Step 1: Select a long-term interpersonal relationship that you have the relational goal to maintain or develop.
Step 2: Write a paper addressing the following questions:
3-5 pages in length,
typed and double spaced, APA format;
submitted on Canvas as an attached file;
use a formal tone, good grammar, and spelling.
4 APA style citations from your textbook and/or other course materials.
Questions 1-5 are essential in to help you analyze the selected relationship. Questions 6 and 7 about gender and culture may be significant in your relationship.
Describe the nature of the relationship and your interpersonal goals for the relationship (include relational, self-presentation, and instrumental goals).
How does your relationship with this person meet the definition of interpersonal communication? What aspects of the interpersonal communication in this relationship need improvement (yourself and/or the relationship)?
How does your interaction with this person impact your self-concept? Give at least two examples of what your partner did/said to make an impact on your self-concept.
Are you satisfied with the depth and breadth of disclosure in this relationship? Why or why not? Provide specific examples to support your answer.
What perceptual barriers have affected your relationship with this person, either in the short-term or long-term? Which have you successfully overcome, at least occasionally? Which ones are the most difficult for you to overcome? Why? Use specific examples to support your answer.
How have gender differences (or similarities) played a role in your communication or interactions with this person? Give an example to support your answer.
What challenges do you encounter in this relationship that may be attributed to culture? What about challenges attributed to emotional management? Provide specific examples to support your answers.
