Chapter 11 – Relational Dialectics Theory
Chapter 11
Relational Dialectics Theory
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Research using Relational Dialectics Theory has uncovered several new dialectics. Which
two were found in the research focusing on illness and death in the context of the family?
2. All of the following statements about dialectical tensions are true EXCEPT
3. Which assumption about relational dialectics proposes that relationships typically swing
back and forth between conflicting desires held by one or both partners?
4. _____ refers to the processual nature of relationships and their change over time.
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26. The monologic approach pictures contradictions as either/or relationships.
27. New research that studied nurses working in health care teams found that, contrary to
expectations, they experience no dialectical tensions related to their role, status, or identity.
28. Contextual dialectics derive from the place of the relationship in the larger culture.
29. Baxter and Montgomery predicted that we can have fewer ongoing tensions in our
relationships if we increase the amount of self-disclosure.
30. Relational Dialectics Theory can be applied to a variety of relationships and contexts,
including the workplace, family, and health care relationships.
31. When dealing with tensions, partners make communication choices based on what has
happened in the past as they communicate in the present about the future of the relationship.
Essay Questions
32. Compare the monologic, dualistic, and dialectical views of the following dialectics:
openness and protection, autonomy and connection, and novelty and predictability.
Answers will vary.
33. Describe the four primary strategies that have been used to manage dialectical tensions.
Which do you perceive to be the most effective? Why? Which do you perceive to be the least
effective? Why?
Answers will vary.
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34. Provide an example that illustrates each of the three factors that influence the strategies used
to manage dialectical tensions.
Answers will vary.
35. Identify the two locations from which dialectical tensions result. Provide an example of
each.
Answers will vary.
36. Suppose you could sit with Baxter and Montgomery and discuss the merits and
shortcomings of their theory. What sorts of discussions would you undertake with the
theorists?
Answers will vary.
37. Think of additional dialectics that you have experienced in your interpersonal relationships.
Are there different dialectics for different types of relationships? Explain with examples.
Answers will vary.
38. Using the standard criteria for theory evaluation, critique Relational Dialectics Theory.
Answers will vary.
39. How would you use Relational Dialectics Theory to develop a study investigating
dialectical tensions in a particular type of relationship or context? Formulate a hypothesis or
research question, and describe how you would go about conducting your study.
Answers will vary.
40. Do you think there are strategies other than those identified by the theorists as the means of
managing dialectical tensions? Use examples to illustrate some other ways relational partners
may negotiate the contradicting desires described in this theory.
Answers will vary.