8.4 Discuss relational dialectics and three primary tensions in relationships.

One approach to studying interpersonal communication in relationships is the relational dialectics perspective, which examines sets of tensions that emerge in ongoing relationships, especially romantic or intimate ones. Three tensions are particularly critical:

• Integration–separation: autonomy versus connection

• Stability–change: predictability versus novelty

• Expression–privacy: openness versus closedness Managing Interpersonal Conflict