Relational Dialectic Theory Of Communication

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One general conclusion that can be drawn from a close look at communication theories is that communication shapes one's reality by enhancing life experiences. Communication is the shared process of using messages to construct and contribute in social reality. The parts of our lives that we derive the most meaning from are our individual identities, relationships, organizations, communities, cultures, and ideas, which are all intertwined through communication. Each of these is a part of social reality that emerges through social interaction, thus enhancing our life experiences. Communication empowers us to embody possibility, accomplish change and growth, both for ourselves and for others. It allows the opportunity for new experiences in future
Specifically, symbolic interactionism theory states that because people are symbolic creatures they can interpret and talk about their personal experiences, such as wishes and beliefs, thus improving and giving meaning to one's reality. Coordinated management of meaning theory states people form criteria for creating and understanding meaning enmeshed in a conversation by employing what action is appropriate to take. Finally, according to relational dialectics theory relational life is portrayed by ongoing tensions between contradictory impulses. Relational dialectics shows the process of conflicting desires using communication within a relationship to reconcile differences. These three theories support the premise that communication is necessary for a complete life experience by illustrating that through communication of meaning, understanding and intentions within interactions, realities are shaped and allowed to be enhanced through past and future
People in relationships frequently feel the pull-push of conflicting desires. Large components within this theory is that humans wish to have predictability and novelty, protectiveness and openness, autonomy and connection. Within a relationship people communicate in attempt to reconcile disputing desires, but they never completely lose their desire for both of the opposing pairs. Balance is vital in relational dialectics because it produces positive outcomes and is the reason that contradictions occur. Similarities and differences within a relationship are created and sustained by communication or dialogue. A main concept of relational dialectics is unity, to construct one's reality is a unified process created by every relationship maintained within one’s lifetime. Communication is necessary for such unity to occur, both within oneself and within the context of

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