Chapter 8 Learning outcomes

After studying the material in this chapter, you should be able to

• describe the various reasons for entering into interpersonal relationships;
• analyze the stages typically experienced in relationships and identify factors that might affect this sequence;
• identify the dialectical tensions that influence your communication goals, the strategies you use to manage these tensions, and alternative strategies you might consider using; and
• describe what communicators must consider in order to maintain, and improve their interpersonal relationships.