- Choose a scene from a show or movie where two people in an interpersonal relationship are in conflict. They can be romantic partners, friends, colleagues, or family. They CAN NOT be strangers as they are not in an interpersonal relationship.
- To do your analysis, first, you are to find TWO different theories or concepts (either from our textbook or online) that will help you explain why the characters are in the conflict they are in. Consider the following questions but please note you do NOT have to answer these questions, they are just to guide you in thinking about why this conflict exists.
Do you believe one or both of the characters have self-disclosed in such a way that is problematic?
Do you believe one or both have a listening style preference that is preventing them from listening more appropriately?
What relational stage do you believe they are in and why? What evidence is there?
Do you believe the conflict has to do with a relational dialectic? If so, which one and why?
What communication style is each showing?
- After completing the previous step, second, find ONE MORE theory or concept (either from our textbook or online) that will help you explain how these two characters could resolve their conflict. Consider the following questions but please note you do NOT need to answer these questions, they are just to guide you in deciding what a good solution would be.
Could active listening have made a difference?
Is there a self-disclosure standard they could have kept?
If there was a dialectical tension, which way could they manage it?
What conflict management style would have been best for each character and why?
