Скачать или смотреть Relational Dialectics Theory: Why Relationships Feel Like a Tug-of-War

Why do even healthy relationships sometimes feel like a balancing act — closeness vs. space, honesty vs. privacy, stability vs. change? In this episode of Communication Campus, Dr. Malynnda Stewart explores Relational Dialectics Theory (RDT), developed by Leslie Baxter and Barbara Montgomery, which explains the ongoing tensions and contradictions that shape our closest connections.

Relational Dialectics Theory reminds us that tension isn’t a sign of failure — it’s a natural part of communication and an opportunity for growth. By learning how to navigate these contradictions, we can better understand friendships, romantic relationships, families, and even workplace dynamics.

📚 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The core assumptions of Relational Dialectics Theory

Three major internal tensions: connection vs. autonomy, openness vs. privacy, predictability vs. novelty

External tensions that influence relationships (like inclusion vs. seclusion)

Strategies for managing contradictions (selection, separation, neutralization, reframing)

Real-life examples of how RDT shows up in everyday communication

🎓 About the Series:
This episode is part of the Intro to Communication Theories playlist, where graduate-level concepts are made engaging and accessible for students, educators, and anyone curious about how communication shapes our lives.

💬 Let’s Connect:
If you enjoy this video, subscribe to Communication Campus and turn on notifications for upcoming episodes on Communication Privacy Management Theory, Media Multiplexity Theory, and more.

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