Communication Theory Social Penetration Theory Essay

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2. Relational Dialectics Theory

Relational dialectics theory is defined as an "interpretive theory of meaning-making in familial and non-kin relationships" (Baxter a.L., 2008). The dialectical process of thinking increases in a major manner our general view of the conceptual framework on life and relationships that we form in life. Through the dialectical view, we are able to see what we could not see before in relationships, as well as seeing afresh the things that we saw at a surface level. The theory is very instrumental in crisis or conflict solution and mediation between two conflicting parties.

The dialectical theory has employed four approaches mainly in solving dialectical tensions described as follows:

(a). Totality; which recognizes that contradiction is part and parcel of the human existence and cannot be understood in isolation. It says that dialectics are related intrinsically to each other. Therefore there is a great interdependence of people in a relationship

(b). Contradiction; is considered the pivot of dialectics since it refers to the antagonism that exists between two subjects who have to stay together. It kind of describes unified opposition. This is when we have two tendencies that are unified yet constantly negating each other.

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(c). Motion; which suggest that relationships are ever in motion. There in no time of constant stand still. Here in any relationship, if there is any characteristic or value that is pushed to the extreme, it will contain some of the characteristic of the pushing element and consequently push back.

(d). Praxis; which simply points to the choice making capacity of human beings. It reflects upon the practical and applicable choices one makes in sight of opposing values and needs.

The most effective of the four concepts is the totality concept since it brings us in touch with the daily realities of life and co-existence in a dialectical world. The interdependence of people on each other can make them resolve the issues that arise among them in as much as there will be constant conflicts.

The least effective or least applicable concept in life among the four is the praxis concept. This refers to logical and practical individual choices. Unfortunately not all people will make the choices that are for the common good. Indeed most people will make choices that benefit them alone hence gives room to bias......

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"Communication Theory Social Penetration Theory", 02 April 2011, Accessed.20 May. 2025,
https://www.aceyourpaper.com/essays/communication-theory-social-penetration-10877