COMM 1A: Exploring Relationship Rules Theory Through Examples

This discussion post for COMM 1A explores the Relationship Rules Theory, focusing on its application in personal relationships. The author relates to the theory, explaining its relevance in maintaining successful relationships, including friendships and family. The post provides two examples: the firs...Read More

Running Head: COMM 1A
COMM 1A

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Table of Contents
Relationship rules theory............................................................................................................3
Relating to the theory.............................................................................................................3
Two examples of experience..................................................................................................3
Reference list..............................................................................................................................5

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Relationship rules theory
Relating to the theory
Relationship rules theory can be selected in this case, which is related with personal life. This
theory can help to identify whether a relation is successful or destructive in nature (DeVito,
2019). The theory can be used in a situation wherein friendship holds importance. Different
interpersonal skills like sharing information and emotion and providing support to friend are
necessary to maintain a friendship. These interpersonal skills are main friendship rules that
are mentioned in this theory. On the other hand, relationship has broken in personal life when
any confusion has occurred due to imperfect interaction management or lack of
supportiveness. As opined by Roberts & Dunbar (2015), honesty, proper interaction
management, and supportiveness are some relationship ethics that are mentioned in
relationship rules theory.
In family also this theory can be related where cooperating and supporting other members is
necessary. Supporting effort of other member in a family helps to improve relationships
between members of a family. However, any harassment or improper communication can
decrease bonding between members of a family. For example, bullying any member or
making fun of the disability of sister or brother decreases relationship between siblings in a
family. These are basic rules that are mentioned in this theory, which helps a family to
become a cohesive unit.
Two examples of experience
The relationship rules theory has provided clear insight of rules of different relationships
including friendships, romantic and family rules. Real-life relationships can be repaired by
applying these rules. For example, if I heard that someone is saying negative words to my

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best friend and she is not there to defend herself, I take a stand for her. As opined by
Lantagne & Furman (2017), one friend must stand up for other friends in case of any kind of
any emergency situation. Whenever I see my best friend in trouble, relationship rules theory
helps me to stand by her side. It has been noticed that one can strengthen the bonding
between friends by applying friendship rules that are mentioned in relationship rules theory.
Trusting a friend is one of the important rules in friendship and it must be followed in a
friendship.
Romantic rules help to maintain relationships with partner and it can help to repair
relationship as well (Canary & Yum, 2015). Understanding relationship ethics helps to value
each other within a romantic relationship. For example, in my relationship, I respect the
opinion of my partner while making any decision for a better future. People who
acknowledge the identity of each other can be in a good romantic relationship. Being
genuine, open and honest to my partner has helped to overcome relationship issues including
differences in perspectives. On the other hand, both the partners must spend time together to
know each other in a better way. Being loyal to family and friends has helped me to gain trust
from them.

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Reference list
Canary, D. J., & Yum, Y. O. (2015). Relationship maintenance strategies. The international
encyclopedia of interpersonal communication, 1-9. Retrieved from:
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/9781118540190.wbeic248
DeVito, J. A. (2019). The interpersonal communication book. Instructor, 1, 18. Retrieved
from:
Developmental psychology, 53(9), 1738. Retrieved from:
Human Nature, 26(4), 426-450. Retrieved from: