Question 1

Rather than see relationships in stages, some take the dialectical tensions view and see relationships in terms of a balance between being a couple and maintaining individuality.

Accepted Answer

The dialectical tensions view emphasizes the need for balance between the opposing forces in a relationship such as intimacy and independence, openness and closeness, and stability and change. The focus is on managing these tensions rather than viewing relationships in distinct stages.

Question 2

"I know you're busy; I better let you go." This example describes a hint.

Accepted Answer

The statement "I better let you go" implies that the person is busy and may not have time to continue the conversation. This is a hint that the person should end the call or interaction.

Question 3

To maintain a healthy relationship during the stagnating stage, partners need to balance the need for togetherness with the need for independence.

Accepted Answer

The answer of To maintain a healthy relationship during the...

Question 4

All self-disclosure leads to liking or attractiveness.

Accepted Answer

Self-disclosure can lead to greater intimacy and trust in a relationship, but it does not guarantee liking or attractiveness. Other factors such as personality, shared interests, and physical attraction also play a role in determining attraction.

Question 5

When it comes to technology, studies have found that satisfied couples negotiate and adhere to rules about cell phone usage as a way to balance connection and independence.

Accepted Answer

Studies have indeed found that satisfied couples negotiate and adhere to rules about cell phone usage as a way to balance connection and independence.

Question 6

Physical intimacy is the best type of relational intimacy.

Accepted Answer

It is subjective and dependent on individual preferences and values. Some may prioritize physical intimacy, while others may value emotional or intellectual intimacy more.

Question 7

Telling your best friend's secrets to your partner is an example of an unintentional relational transgression.

Accepted Answer

Telling your best friend's secrets to your partner is considered an intentional act because it involves a deliberate decision to share confidential information, not an accidental or unintentional action.

Question 8

Forgiveness can reduce emotional distress and aggression and also improve cardiovascular functioning.

Accepted Answer

Forgiveness has been shown to reduce negative emotions such as anger, anxiety, and depression, which can in turn reduce aggression. It has also been found to lead to improved cardiovascular and immune functioning.

Question 9

Differentiation in relationships is always negative since it is part of the "coming apart" process.

Accepted Answer

Differentiation in relationships can be both positive and negative. It can lead to a healthier sense of self and more mature and fulfilling relationships, or it can lead to a sense of disconnection and distance. It is not inherently negative or positive, but rather depends on how it is experienced and managed by both individuals in the relationship.

Question 10

Reciprocity and self-clarification are two benefits of self-disclosure.

Accepted Answer

Reciprocity refers to the mutual exchange of self-disclosure between individuals in a relationship, and self-clarification refers to the process of gaining a better understanding of oneself through disclosing personal information to others.

Question 11

According to the text, real self-disclosure does not involve attempts at control of the other.

Accepted Answer

The answer of According to the text, real self-disclosure does...

Question 12

Breadth is the first dimension of self-disclosure, involving the range of subjects being discussed.

Accepted Answer

Breadth refers to the range of topics being discussed in self-disclosure.

Question 13

People are judged as attractive in proportion to the amount to which they disclose themselves to others, no matter what the situation.

Accepted Answer

Attractiveness is not solely based on self-disclosure. Other factors such as physical appearance, personality, and confidence also play a role.

Question 14

Most lies are told for the benefit of the recipient.

Accepted Answer

Most lies are told for the self-benefit of the liar, to avoid punishment, gain advantage, or protect themselves in some way, rather than primarily for the benefit of the recipient.

Question 15

The fact that we are attracted to competent people means that we need to appear flawless to others.

Accepted Answer

While competence can be attractive, it does not necessarily mean that we need to appear flawless to others. Showing vulnerability and acknowledging mistakes can also be seen as a sign of competence and authenticity.

Question 16

Relational partners are happiest when they are similar in the amount and content of their self-disclosure.

Accepted Answer

Research suggests that partners who have similar levels and types of self-disclosure tend to have more satisfying and fulfilling relationships. This may be because they feel more understood and validated by each other, leading to greater intimacy and connection. However, it is important to note that some level of variation in self-disclosure can also be beneficial, as couples may learn from each other and experience new perspectives.

Question 17

Social exchange theory is a socioeconomic theory of relational development that suggests people seek
relationships in which the rewards they receive from others are equal to or greater than the costs they encounter.

Accepted Answer

Social exchange theory proposes that people are rational actors who enter into relationships that offer a satisfactory balance of benefits and costs, seeking to maximize their rewards and minimize their losses.

Question 18

"I acted like a selfish jerk." This is an example of an explicit acknowledgement that the transgression was wrong.

Accepted Answer

The statement explicitly acknowledges that the transgression (acting like a selfish jerk) was wrong.

Question 19

Not all self-disclosure draws people closer.

Accepted Answer

While self-disclosure can sometimes increase closeness, not all self-disclosure will have this effect. In some cases, self-disclosure may not be well-received or may even push people away. It depends on the content, timing, and context of the self-disclosure, as well as the individuals involved.

Question 20

Many people equivocate rather than tell the truth because it saves face for both the sender and receiver.

Accepted Answer

Equivocating allows the sender to avoid admitting the truth, which can be embarrassing or uncomfortable, while also sparing the receiver from having to hear something unpleasant or negative. This can help maintain a harmonious relationship and avoid conflict.

Quiz 8: Communication and Relational Dynamics