What are the dialectical struggles you see? In other words, the "humor" is based on dialectical tension. Use the above terms from the theory to explain what is going on in the relationships you see.
For example, use the ideas from Social Exchange or Social Penetration Theory to explain why the dialectic of "getting closer/maintaining autonomy" didn't "work" for Rachel in "Rachel Feeds Emma."
Contradictions - in relational dialectics, the concept is that the extreme contrary has the characteristics of its opposite
Totality - in relational dialectics, the totality comes when the opposites unite. Thus the relationship is balanced with contradictions and only then it reaches totality
Process - relational dialectics can be comprehended through various social processes. These processes simultaneously continue within a relationship in a recurring manner
Praxis - the relationship progresses with experience and both people interact and communicate effectively to realize their needs. Praxis is a concept of practicability in making decisions being in a relationship despite of opposing wants and needs
The most common dialectics in a relationship are:
Openness and closeness (openness and protection)
In a relationship, both partners expect openness in their communication as to be dependable and also to maintain a healthy relationship. But on the contrary, the individual desires privacy.
Certainty and uncertainty (novelty and predictability)
Certainty is one factor that bonds the relationship. It is the promise that one keeps and makes both the parties comfortable. But on the contrary, being so predictable makes the relationship dreary thus an element of surprise or ambiguity spur up the relationship.
Connectedness and separateness (autonomy and connection)
A relationship to continue, people has to be bonded physically and mentally. But on the contrary too much of connectedness can blur the individuality of the person.
We use these tools to manage relational dialectics:
Alternation - prioritizing the problems alternatively
Denial - being one sided while confronting a problem while ignoring the other.
Segmentation - dealing with the problem one-sidedly. Unlike denial, the problem is being faced in a different circumstance
Disorientation - avoiding the problem by terminating the relationship
Balance - keeping a balance between the situation while solving a problem
Reaffirmation - accepting the problem to maintain the relationship
Integration - both the parties are made satisfied by developing methods to solve problems