The most interesting and important concept from Trenholm (2011) in chapter 6 is Relational Maintenance Behavior. I thought the concepts of positivity, openness, assurance, networks, task sharing, conflict management, and advice sharing-offering are characteristics of a successful relationship. Whether it’s platonic or romantic these concepts can help shape and improve relationships. The most important one I believe is positivity. According to Trenholm positivity is where partners are cheerful and optimistic, build each other’s self-esteem, patient and forgiving, and refrain from criticism. While I don’t completely agree that we can comply with these guidelines constantly we should always remain objective about situations and know that we are all human and make mistakes.
The concept I believe to be the most useful is task sharing. Trenholm states that task sharing is where individuals are both equally responsible in a relationship and both help with tasks that need to be done (2011). This reminds me of teamwork. Teamwork can help improve on communication and also simplify issues that seem difficult.
Mall7,
ReplyDeleteI also picked the relationship maintenance strategies as my third post. I agree with all the strategies it talked about and how they all are important parts of keeping relationships healthy and happy. I’ve learned that you should always be positive in a relationship. Everyone likes to get complements and get positive feedback. Conflict management is a complicated part of any relationship. I’m the type of person that likes to jeep things in, so I’ve had a hard time trying to resolve conflicts in any relationship. You have to be willing to express yourself and learn how to take criticism when its needed.