COMMUNICATION Habits of Communication and the Relationship S ✓ Solved

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This research has its motivation based on these theoretical questions: what are the expectations of communication lying within the romantic relationships in an environment that is constantly available? How do the discrepancies existing between the actual communication and the desired communication frequencies impact satisfaction in romantic relationships? These questions are operationalized in the following empirical questions: what mediums of communication are often used in romantic relationships, and how often are they employed?

Romantic relationships between unmarried individuals are often studied in the context of family relationships or friendships. Romance relationships differ significantly from other relationships as they involve unique characteristics such as love, intimacy, and commitment (Khan et al., 2020; Ruhlmann & Durtschi, 2018). This study focuses on committed romantic relationships, integrating these essential characteristics.

Recent research highlights that texting is the most common form of communication among younger adults in romantic relationships (Taylor & Bazarova, 2018). However, it is less understood how older couples communicate, though platforms like Facebook are commonly used (Taylor & Ledbetter, 2017). There is a pressing need to analyze the satisfaction and frequency of various communication methods including popular apps like Snapchat, which allows users to send texts that disappear after a short duration. This unique mode of communication, often engaged by young adults, can significantly impact relational dynamics (Wilson, 2020).

Numerous studies emphasize the prevalence of text messaging in young people's communication habits, revealing that teens can send up to 3,000 texts a month, averaging about 100 texts per day (Wilson, 2020). Furthermore, texting serves as a continuous mode of communication that fosters ongoing connections throughout the day. Taylor and Ledbetter (2017) examine how this constant interaction influences relationship satisfaction and anxiety within the 18-23 age group.

Communication expectations are shaped by the constant availability of mobile phones, leading young adults to anticipate timely replies to messages. Not responding to texts is viewed as rude, and individuals often assume technical issues if replies are delayed, leading them to follow up messages (Wilson, 2020). This constant accessibility creates new expectations for regular communication, significantly affecting emotional responses when those expectations are unmet (Taylor & Bazarova, 2018).

The relationship between communication patterns and relationship satisfaction is intricate. Positive texting, which reflects affection, can enhance satisfaction, while negative usage, such as confrontational messaging, correlates with decreased satisfaction (Ruhlmann et al., 2018). Couples involved in long-distance relationships often report higher satisfaction due to the frequent use of communication technologies, whereas those with regular face-to-face interactions may experience conflicts that lead to lower relationship satisfaction (Taylor & Bazarova, 2018).

Understanding the frequency and modes of communication contributes to the knowledge of relational quality, defined as relational closeness and satisfaction (Taylor & Ledbetter, 2017). The advance of technology has reshaped communication, particularly among young adults, indicating a significant evolution in social exchanges within romantic settings. This study hypothesizes that when communication technologies allow constant contact, individuals report greater satisfaction in their relationships and that mismatches in communication preferences may result in dissatisfaction (Wilson, 2020).

Paper For Above Instructions

Romantic relationships have become a focal point for social researchers, as the dynamics of communication continue to evolve in the digital age. The primary aim of this literature review is to explore communication habits among university students in romantic relationships and how these habits relate to relationship satisfaction. As the questions guiding this investigation suggest, understanding both the mediums used for communication and the frequency of usage is essential to evaluating the satisfaction levels within these romantic partnerships.

To set the stage, it is imperative to define what constitutes a romantic relationship in contemporary society. Unlike familial bonds or friendships, romantic engagements are characterized by unique features such as love, intimacy, and commitment, which can vary significantly from one couple to another (Khan et al., 2020). These characteristics shape the expectations individuals have regarding their partners’ communication behaviors and the overall satisfaction levels derived from these interactions.

The literature highlights notable shifts in communication mediums, particularly the rise of texting as a primary mode of interaction among younger adults (Taylor & Bazarova, 2018). Text messaging has become ubiquitous, with reports indicating that young people send thousands of texts each month, highlighting not only the frequency but also the importance of this method in maintaining relational connectivity. Additionally, platforms like Facebook and Snapchat have carved out their niches in romantic communication, allowing for casual yet persistent contact between partners. The necessity of understanding these evolving methods is underscored by the growing evidence suggesting that communication behaviors directly impact relationship satisfaction.

This relationship satisfaction has been closely linked to the expectations surrounding communications. For instance, Taylor and Ledbetter (2017) identify how inadequate responses to text messages can lead to misunderstandings and frustrations, reflecting a breach in the anticipated communication norms among partners. The expectation to reply promptly can create tension, especially when such expectations are not reciprocated. This finding aligns with the work of Guzman and Lewis (2020), who emphasize the social norms dictating younger generations’ responses to text messages, thereby shaping interaction patterns and emotional responses.

Interestingly, the impact of communication frequency on relationship satisfaction is also contingent upon the quality of interactions. Ruhlmann et al. (2018) illustrate that affectionate and supportive messaging can significantly boost satisfaction, while negative and confrontational communication can exacerbate dissatisfaction. These insights reinforce the premise that it is not solely the frequency of communication that matters but the nature of those communications as well.

As we delve deeper into the role of technology in romantic communications, the potential for misalignment in communication practices emerges as a key factor in relational fulfillment. Individuals may prefer varying modes of communication: some thrive on regular texting, while others may favor direct phone calls or in-person interactions. Understanding these preferences can illuminate the divergences that may exist in the relational dynamics, leading to degrees of satisfaction that are often contingent upon aligning these preferences among partners (Wilson, 2020).

Moreover, it is essential to recognize how digital communication shapes perceptions of intimacy and connection. The expectation of "perpetual contact" created by constant access to smartphones may lead to differing interpretations of relational closeness (Taylor & Bazarova, 2018). As such, understanding these evolving communication preferences among university students is crucial for evaluating relationship dynamics, particularly as they relate to satisfaction levels. The recognition of these trends can also facilitate open dialogue among partners regarding their needs and expectations, which ultimately contributes to healthier relational outcomes.

In conclusion, the intersection of communication habits and relationship satisfaction in romantic partnerships is a complex tapestry influenced by various factors, including technological advancements, personal expectations, and emotional exchanges. University students' engagement in frequent and varied forms of communication highlights these dynamics and serves as a rich area for further investigation. Continued research into these phenomena will not only provide insights into the evolving landscape of romantic relationships but also equip individuals with the tools necessary to enhance their relational satisfaction.

References

• Guzman, A. L., & Lewis, S. C. (2020). Artificial intelligence and communication: A Human-Machine Communication research agenda. New Media & Society, 22(1), 70-86.
• Khan, F., Chong, J. Y., Theisen, J. C., Fraley, R. C., Young, J. F., & Hankin, B. L. (2020). Development and change in attachment: A multiwave assessment of passion and its correlates across childhood and adolescence: Journal of personality and social psychology, 118(6), 1188-1207.
• Ruhlmann, L. M., Gallus, K. L., & Durtschi, J. A. (2018). Exploring relationship satisfaction and attachment behaviors in single- and dual-trauma couples: A pilot study. Traumatology, 24(1), 27-36.
• Taylor, S. H., & Bazarova, N. N. (2018). Revisiting media multiplexity: A longitudinal analysis of media use in romantic relationships. Journal of Communication, 68(6), 1007-1029.
• Taylor, S. H., & Ledbetter, A. M. (2017). Extending media multiplexity theory to the extended family: Communication satisfaction and tie strength as moderators of violations of media use expectations. New Media & Society, 19(9), 1388-1406.
• Wilson, C. (2020). The association between differentiation of self and romantic relationship outcomes and the mediating role of communication behaviors (Doctoral dissertation).

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