Knapp’s Differentiating Stage of Relationship Decay

Knapp’s Differentiating Stage of Relationship Decay

COMM 1500 Spring 2015 9:15 Coles Cone

Knapp’s Differentiating Stage of Relationship Decay

Introduction:

According to Mark Knapp’s relationship model, there are ten stages through which most relationships generally progress. Five of these stages deal with coming together, while the other five deal with relationship decay, otherwise known as the coming apart process. The purpose of this presentation is to accurately depict the differentiating stage of the coming apart process. Specifically, the differentiating stage initiates the coming apart process, and it is characterized by a monopolizing change in thought, in which both sides of the relationship begin to realize the differences that differentiate themselves from that of their partner.

Body:

I. [The first sub-topic] The differentiating stage of relationship decay is the phase that begins the coming apart process.

A. [First supporting information for the sub-topic] In the differentiating stage, the differences that distinguish each partner from the relationship as a whole begin to become prevalent thoughts in each partner’s respective mind.

1. [Detail of the Information] Partners in a relationship will begin to consciously notice and think about the differences in attitudes, beliefs, or values between themselves and their partner.

2. [Detail of the information] A sign of a relationship that is in the differentiating process would be a partner stating “How can you think that?” or “We have so many differences!”

II. [The second sub-topic] Most relationships undergo sporadic durations of differentiating.

A. [First supporting information for the sub-topic] These incidences can involve arguments over contradicting beliefs, goals, viewpoints, or any point of difference that either side to the relationship finds divisive.

1. [Detail of Information] The points of controversy that characterize the differentiating stage can stem from differing perceptions regarding certain topics.

2. [Detail of information] Serial argument topics, such as differing beliefs regarding sex, money, and kids can often lead couples into entering the differentiating stage of relationship decay.

B. [Second supporting information for the sub-topic] When relationships undergo these periods of differentiating, talking about the topics in controversy may be uncomfortable and unpleasant.

1. Partners to the relationship may challenge and attack the other’s viewpoint by saying “Why would you think that?”

III. [The third sub-topic] The relationship’s evolution will be determined by how each party reacts to the points of contention that are plaguing the relationship.

A. [First