COM 252 – Interpersonal Communication
This handout represents things of particular interest, but does not necessarily represent EVERYTHING that you will
need to know for the exams. Be sure that you understand the following concepts, can give examples of them, and
recognize them in situations. You will want to carefully read the chapter and review the material discussed in class.
This handout is designed to help you review some of the key aspects.
Chapter 9 – Dynamics of Interpersonal Relationships
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Why do we form relationships? (Why do we choose others as potential relational
partners?)
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What is social exchange theory?
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Discuss relational maintenance.
Stages:
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3. __________________
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5. __________________
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6. __________________
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7. __________________
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8. __________________
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9. __________________
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10. __________________
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Discuss dialectical theory.
What are the main dialectical tensions?
How do people manage dialectical tensions?

Consider how people communicate about their relationships.
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How are relationships damaged? Consider repair strategies and the role of forgiveness.

Review the following research: “Online Dating: Many Happy Returns” (p. 278) &
“Tethered by Cell Phones: A Connection-Autonomy Dilemma” (p. 286).
Key Terms
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Avoiding
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Bonding
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Circumscribing
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Comparison level (CL)
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Comparison level of alternatives (CLalt)
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Connection-autonomy dialectic
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Conventionality-uniqueness dialectic
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Dialectical tensions
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Differentiating
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Experimenting
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Expression-privacy dialectic
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Inclusion-seclusion dialectic
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Initiating
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Integrating
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Integration-separation dialectic
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Intensifying
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Metacommunication
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Openness-closedness dialectic
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Predictability-novelty dialectic
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Relational maintenance
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Relational transgressions
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Revelation-concealment dialectic
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Social support
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Stability-change dialectic
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Stagnating
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Terminating