Question

Shelly and Lincoln have been married for two years. Shelly loves surprises, and she wants to throw a surprise party celebrating Lincoln’s recent promotion at work. However, Lincoln is more schedule-oriented, and Shelly is worried if he’ll welcome the surprise. In this scenario, which of the following relational dialectics plays a role?

(A) Openness/closedness
(B) Novelty/openness
(C) Autonomy/connection
(D) Novelty/predictability

Answer 1

The relational dialectic playing a role in Shelly’s scenario is novelty/predictability, as it represents the tension between her love for surprises and Lincoln’s preference for a scheduled routine.

Step-by-step explanation:

The scenario presented involves relational dialectics, a concept in communication theory that explores the tension, struggle, and general dynamic interplay between opposite tendencies in personal relationships. Shelly’s intention to throw a surprise party for Lincoln, despite him being schedule-oriented, directly relates to the dialectic of novelty/predictability. This goes hand-in-hand with the need for excitement and new experiences (novelty) versus the desire for stability and routine (predictability), both essential components of a healthy relationship. While Shelly is inclined to introduce a surprise element, Lincoln prefers things planned and predictable, showcasing the challenge in balancing these opposing needs.

In the context of the options provided, the most applicable relational dialectic is (D) Novelty/predictability. This dialectic is a fundamental relational tension reflected in this scenario.

Answer 2

Answer: the correct answer is D. Novelty/predictability.

Explanation:

Relational dialectics is an interpersonal communication theory about close personal bonds and relationships that highlights the issues, struggles and interplay between contrary tendencies. This theory, proposed respectively by Leslie Baxter and Barbara Montgomery in 1988, defines communication frameworks between relationship partners as the result of never ending dialectical tensions. The dialect is, in this case, novelty/predictability since Shelly has taken a novel action and Lincoln is predictable in the sense that he is schedule-oriented.