The Relational Typology Theory By Mary Ann Fitzpatrick

The relational typology theory by Mary Ann Fitzpatrick attempts to categorize a typology of relationships. The relational typology theory identifies three discrete relational definitions: Independents, separates and traditionalists. Independents interact more, engage in more conflict, have fewer periods of solitude, have more trouble agreeing upon relational rules and have more control. Separates interact less, have more periods of solitude, avoid conflict, demonstrate more rigid interaction and are emotionally divorced. Traditionalists hold conventional ideological values about relationships, share relational control and others aspects of their lives, rarely alone, emotionally interdependent and successful in managing relational conflict; they are most supportive, satisfied and empathetic towards couple types.

Fitzpatrick’s relational typologies measure the dimensions of relationships.

The dimensions of relationships are classified as: interdependence, ideology and conflict. It is said the more interdependent the couple is, “…the higher the level of companionship, the more time they spend together, and the more they organize their space to promote togetherness and interaction” (Berkowitz and Fitzpatrick 1964). Ideological matters like are viewed differently from individuals and couples. “The beliefs, standards, and values individuals hold concerning their relationship and family are a major factor guiding not only the interactions with the spouse but also the judgments individuals make about these interactions and their outcomes” (Berkowitz & Fitzpatrick 1964). Conflict distinguishes perception towards being open to conflict between individuals and couples. “Couples vary as to their willingness to engage in conflict and their degree of assertiveness with one another” (Berkowitz & Fitzpatrick

1964).
There are two approaches for studying the rules of relationships: behavioristic and cognitive. The behavioristic approach focuses on interaction patterns between communicators, primarily as it concerns power relations. The behavioristic approach allows development of coding schemes to identify a complementary or symmetrical relationship sequence. “The consistent use of certain message pairs defines the relationship between the communicators and can be seen as a summary of the interaction patterns in a relationship” (Fisher, Ellis, Drecksei, Hoch & Werbel, 1976; Millar & Rogers, 1976). These said interaction patterns in a relationship are either complementary or symmetrical. A relationship is said to be complementary when communicator differences are maximized, and symmetrical if the communicator differences are minimized – i.e. they exhibit similar behaviors. The cognitive approach consists of eight reliably measured factors within individuals. The eight factors are interdependence and autonomy; access and target; traditionalism and change; assertiveness and compliance and conflict management. “Merging these two major approaches to the study of relational definitions – the typological and the relational communication perspectives – serves to strengthen both views of relationships” (Williamson & Fitzpatrick 1997).