Question

Sally and Jack have been seeing one another regularly since their Introduction to Communication class ended. They have a great number of common interests and activities. Lately though, Sally has mentioned to Jack her need to maintain her other male and female friendship activities. Though Sally and Jack's relationship remains strong, Sally's comments could be interpreted as which of the following stages of romantic relationships?

a.
escalation

b.
exploration

c.
intensification

d.
deterioration

e.
navigation

Answer 1

Sally's indication of wanting to maintain her friendships outside of her romantic relationship with Jack suggests they might be in the navigation stage, where autonomy and relationship maintenance are balanced.

Step-by-step explanation:

Sally's comments to Jack indicating her desire to maintain connections with her other male and female friends may suggest she is in the navigation stage of their romantic relationship. The navigation stage involves managing the relationship and seeking a balance between the closeness of the romantic partnership and the autonomy of each partner. It involves concerted efforts to harmonize personal needs with the maintenance of the relationship itself. This stage is characterized by ongoing communication about relationship boundaries, wants, and expectations.

While maintaining a relationship, individuals often weigh the social exchange theory, which posits that relationships are maintained based on a cost-benefit analysis of the relationship's rewards and drawbacks. Sternberg's theory of love also contributes to understanding relationships through the components of intimacy, passion, and commitment which may fluctuate over time and during different stages.