Paper 2 – Relationship Dynamics

For this 4-5 page paper, think about a relationship that has/had some degree of love, attachment, or commitment  (can be one you have experienced yourself or have observed).  What is the dynamic like?  What keeps it going?  In what ways is it solid or tumultuous?  Perhaps you’ve noticed that it is characterized by a particular type of love, a complicated attachment pattern, a conflict pattern, jealousy, etc.  What concept could be used to explain the dynamic?

Choose ONE of the following areas to unpack the relationship dynamic.

· Love style

· Attachment style

· Maintenance behavior

· Conflict management – I chose this

· Relational transgression

The paper should proceed as follows: Brief intro with Thesis

Each paper must advance  a clear and specific thesis.  In a brief introduction, set the stage for what you’re going to cover and present your thesis at the end of this intro.  Please  underline  your thesis.   In preparing your thesis statement, select one particular theory or concept and then word your thesis to show how the concept directly applies to your relationship or encounter.   You can’t cover an entire chapter’s worth of concepts so the focus must be narrowed down.  Here are examples, but of course you should develop your own:

In this relationship, my partner’s harsh approach to conflict leads to me to resort to stonewalling which creates a spiral.

In this relationship, my partner’s secure attachment style has neutralized my anxious tendencies.

Pragmatic love allowed this relationship to go the distance for several years..

Background

What is the concept you’re working with?

Identify and define the concept or theory you have selected.  Include important definitions and the concept’s connection to relevant aspects of interpersonal communication.  Be clear, accurate, and thorough here. You can rely on your textbook for this information – outside research is not required. (Be sure to properly cite material or ideas from any outside source, including the textbook). Application

How does the concept apply to your relationship or encounter?

In this section, present the communication behavior and outcomes that advance your thesis.   Refer to things interactants did/said, direct quotes, observable situations/scenarios, nonverbal behavior, reactions, etc.  Use these concrete observations as the “data” to support your claims in this section.  Avoid indirect or vague impressions.  For example, it is better to write “Jay called me liar and walked out of the room” rather than just “Jay was mad.”    Evaluation

What’s your assessment or takeaway?

This section involves a candid examination and interpretation of the dynamic.  Discuss the ways in which knowledge of the concept or principle might improve the communication of the partners.  What could be done differently? Get insightful here!

——— Length:

· 4 FULL pages minimum – this means you must hit the bottom of the fourth page.  Anything under the full four is eligible for no higher than a C.  Even 3.5 pages gets no higher than a C.

· Large font, margins, or spacing = short length (have I made my point about length yet?)

· Please avoid “fluff” or “filler” types of things (i.e., a drawn-out introduction, extra return spacing, repeating yourself in different words, etc.).

Format:

· Standard font and margins, double spaced.

· Feel free to use MLA or APA format

· Cite any outside sources you consult, paraphrase, or quote.