Problem:
Read the topic and classmates answer. Respond to classmate (1st person ok) in 150+ words (one paragraph) using at least one reference different from classmate (from 2024-2026 that has a weblink to access article) to explain/support, and ask a relevant question to further the conversation. Cite and reference in APA 7th edition format:
Topic -
How might the communication patterns change over the course of a relationship from initial conversation through increasing self-disclosure? Need Assignment Help?
Classmate -
Communication patterns evolve and change throughout the span of a relationship. Within the initial conversation, interactions are polite but cautious and surface level, originally getting to know the person, their hobbies, and other markers that make them who they are. This progresses towards candid self-disclosure, as comfort increases and each partner begins to share personal experiences, vulnerabilities, and emotions (Zarei & Sanaeimanesh, 2014).Further, as the relationship grows into deeper connection, they create a normal communication pattern where each partner expresses identity, position, preferred behaviors, as self-disclosure. This is explained through the Social Penetration Theory that looks at self-disclosure as an onion, where deeper self-disclosure is shared more often, allowing the other partner to learn and understand more about the other as time goes on (Zarei & Sanaeimanesh, 2014). Although self-disclosure is needed in a healthy relationship, there are limits to the amount of disclosure and the reaction receive after disclosing as it leaves the individual open to rejection, embarrassment, loss of personal autonomy and loss of self-efficacy. In longitudinal studies it is often found that marriage satisfaction often decreases over time and may increase at the end of life; with more attention on factors such as marriage duration, communication, attachment, conflict, and the presence of children (Abreu-Afonso et al., 2022). With all of these factors, and more, it is important that the communication pattern and intrinsic motivation, which is internal drive to nurture the relationship rather than for external rewards, allows for resilience through major life changes. Intrinsic motivation is a big factor in relationship satisfaction and success as it aids in developing healthy conflict resolution, deep emotional intimacy, constructive communication patterns, and cohesion and flexibility.
Reference:
Abreu-Afonso, J., Ramos, M. M., Queiroz-Garcia, I., & Leal, I. (2022). How couple's relationship lasts over time? A model for marital satisfaction. Psychological reports,125(3), 1601-1627.
Zarei, E., & Sanaeimanesh, M. (2014). The effect of self-disclosure skill training on communication patterns of referred couples to counseling clinics. Iranian journal of psychiatry and behavioral sciences,8(3), 50-57.