Question

Which relational dialectic is at work in the following scenario?

Lisa has just turned sixteen. While her mother has always been a bosom friend, recently, Lisa has begun to distance herself, at times feeling like her mom is smothering her. Fortunately, Lisa's mom wisely recognizes that Lisa is quickly approaching adulthood and needs more space than she used to.
-autonomy-connection
-novelty-predictability
-openness-privacy

Answer 1

To answer this question, narrow the passage down to a cause and effect scenario, or a simple chain of events.

1. Lisa and her mom get along > 2. Lisa separates from her mother > 3. The mother works to repair their relationship

This can then be shortened to:

Lisa seeks independence > Her mother rebuilds their connection

Of the answers you listed, this most fits the "autonomy versus connection" dynamic.