An exploratory study on the influence of Relational Dialectics on Communication in Christian-based marriages
Presentation Type
Poster
Keywords
Relational Dialectics, Spirituality, Christianity, Religion, Marriage, Autonomy Connection, Revelation Concealment
Department
Communication
Major
Interpersonal Communication
Abstract
This study addresses the spiritual relationships through which many married couples are influenced. In-depth interviews with two Christian couples examine how the Relational Dialectics of Autonomy-Connection and Revelation-Concealment are manifested in both spiritual and marital relationships. In marriages, children and work often bring separation, while difficult decisions and crises bring closeness. Couples also experienced different personal levels of disclosure, but tend to have similar views on God’s will regarding his revelation or lack thereof. Participants indicated that in early marriage, they had to reconcile differences in their spiritual practices and prayer styles, hinting that dialectics with God influence dialectics in a marriage and vice versa. Low participation and high rejection rates suggest a need to improve recruitment by making the interview process less intimidating or increasing incentive. Yet, this area of study is important and should not be ignored.
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Bert Ballard
Funding Source or Research Program
Summer Undergraduate Research Program
An exploratory study on the influence of Relational Dialectics on Communication in Christian-based marriages
This study addresses the spiritual relationships through which many married couples are influenced. In-depth interviews with two Christian couples examine how the Relational Dialectics of Autonomy-Connection and Revelation-Concealment are manifested in both spiritual and marital relationships. In marriages, children and work often bring separation, while difficult decisions and crises bring closeness. Couples also experienced different personal levels of disclosure, but tend to have similar views on God’s will regarding his revelation or lack thereof. Participants indicated that in early marriage, they had to reconcile differences in their spiritual practices and prayer styles, hinting that dialectics with God influence dialectics in a marriage and vice versa. Low participation and high rejection rates suggest a need to improve recruitment by making the interview process less intimidating or increasing incentive. Yet, this area of study is important and should not be ignored.