Stages of Interpersonal Relationship

PARTIDO STATE UNIVERSITY

Goa Camarines Sur

A/Y 2013-2014

Prepared By:

Khim Ferdie Sarmiento

BSED-2B Major in Values Education

khimferdiesarmiento@gmail.com

Close relationships are sometimes called interpersonal relationships. The closest relationships are most often found with family and a small circle of best friends. Interpersonal relationships require the most effort to nurture and maintain. These are also the relationships that give you the most joy and satisfaction. An interpersonal relationship is an association between two or more people that may range from fleeting to enduring.

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. It takes time for a relationship to grow and pass the test of time.

TWO POSSIBILITIES IN A RELATIONSHIP

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.

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.