Romantic Relationships (Communications Paper)

Behaviors in specific communicative situations.

Instructions: Answer the following questions using your textbook. Please write out all of your answers in your own words and in full sentences (no lists or bullet points).

Story 21 – “Unilateral Union: Obsessive Relational Intrusion and Stalking in a Romantic Context”

1. In our story, we are given both sides of a relationship from two perspectives: Alex’s Story and Anna’s Story. Using examples from the story and concepts discussed in class, please answer the following:
2. Was Alex and Anna’s relationship an authentic “Romantic Relationship?” Did it meet the requirements? In at least three sentences, please state your reasoning and use examples from the story to support your response.
3. Refer back to the “Romantic Love Types” (Storge, Agape, ect.), which love type would best describe Alex and the way that he communicates with Anna? In at least three sentences, please use information from class and examples from the story to support your response.

Story 20 – “It Can’t Be Domestic Violence; We’re Not Married!” The Many Faces of Intimate Partner Abuse

1. In our story, Emma and Jason have both just finished college and are moving into an apartment to begin their new lives together. However, we soon learn that their romantic relationship may be more complicated than they had expected. Using examples from the story and concepts discussed in class, please answer the following:
2. Put yourself in Emma’s shoes and refer back to “Social Exchange Theory.” As if you were Emma, describe three Benefits and three Costs to her relationship with Jason in at least six sentences.
3. Keeping these Benefits and Costs in mind, would you continue the relationship? Explain your decision in at least three sentences.

Story 18 – “Yard Sales and Yellow Roses: Rituals in Enduring Relationships”

1. In our story, Martha and Jack are preparing for their annual yard sale and reminiscing about years past. Using examples from the story and concepts discussed in class, please answer the following:
2. Refer back to the “Relational Maintenance Strategies,” which strategies do Martha and Jack use to maintain their romantic relationship? Identify two strategies and give an explanation for each of your strategies using an example from the story in at least two sentences for each strategy.