Interpersonal Relationships

Interpersonal relationship refers to a strong association between individuals sharing common interests and goals.A sense of trust, loyalty and commitment is essential in a relationship.Individuals need to trust and respect their partners to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts in relationship.Stages in an interpersonal relationshipIt takes time for a relationship to grow and pass the test of time.There are two possibilities in a relationship: 1. Possibility - 1: Two people might start a relationship as mere strangers. They get to know each other slowly and become emotionally and mentally attached to their partners gradually. Such relationships often lead to lasting commitments where individuals decide to be with each other until death separates them. 2. Possibility - 2: Two people might start off well but soon face problems. Troubles in relationship start when people have different opinions, views and fail to reach to a mutually acceptable solution. In such cases individuals decide to move on from a relationship for a fresh start. | |
According to famous psychologist George Levinger, every relationship goes through following five stages. 1. First Stage – Acquaintance
Acquaintance refers to knowing each other. To start relationship individuals need to know each other well.
Two individuals might meet at some place and instantly hit it off. People feel attracted to each other and decide to enter into a relationship.
Common friends, social gatherings, same organizations also help people meet, break the ice, get acquainted with each other and start a relationship. 2. Second Stage – The Build up Stage
This is the stage when the relationship actually grows. Individuals are no longer strangers and start trusting each other.
Individuals must be compatible with each other for the relationship to continue for a longer period of time. Individuals with similar interests and backgrounds tend to gel with each other more as compared to individuals from diverse