Primary & Family Relationships Unit 21

I. Nature & Characteristics A. Defined Roles B. Recognition of Responsibilities C. Shared History & Future D. Shared Living Space E. Established Rules

II. Types A. Traditionals 1. blending of 2 persons into a single couple 2. interdependent 3. communication is highly responsive

B. Independents 1. stress their individuality & sense of self 2. communication is responsive

C. Separates 1. relationship of convenience 2. little desire to be together 3. do not classify themselves as part of a “we”

III. Communication Patterns A. Equality 1. exits more in theory than reality 2. shared decision making equal

2. areas of power divided up 50/50 3. conflict is nonthreatening B. Balanced Split 1. still total equality 2. areas of power divided up 50/50 3. conflict is nonthreatening 50/50

1. one person has more power and generally controls the relationship C. Unbalanced Split 1. one person has more power and generally controls the relationship Leader Follower

2. conflicts are extremely bitter 3. parent/child analogy D. Monopoly 1. one is in total control 2. conflicts are extremely bitter 3. parent/child analogy Total Control Power-less