Discuss the role of communication in maintaining relationships.

Refer to the paper 2 markbands when awarding marks.

The command term “discuss” requires candidates to offer a considered review of the role of communication in maintaining human relationships.

Relevant studies and/or theories related to the role of communication in maintaining human relationships may include, but are not limited to:

• the importance of self-disclosure (Altman and Taylor’s social penetration theory, 1973)
• the role of micro-expressions (Gottman and Levinson, 1986)
• relationship maintenance through communication (Canary and Dainton, 2003)
• marital type and communication (Weigel and Ballard-Reisch, 1999)
• attributional styles (Bradbury and Fincham, 1990)
• gender-based communication styles (Tannen, 1990).

Discussion may include, but is not limited to:

• cultural biases in research
• methodological considerations
• gender differences in communication
• difficulties of carrying out research on communication styles
• ethical concerns when conducting research
• application of research to enhance positive communication in relationships.

Descriptions of research on communication that do not demonstrate the role of communication in maintaining relationships should be awarded up to a maximum of [4] for criterion A, knowledge and comprehension, up to a maximum of [3] for criterion B, critical thinking, and up to a maximum of [2] for criterion C, organization.