Analysis Of Relational Dialectics In The Film 'Safe Haven'

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Communication is a critical foundation of every relationship; without it the relationship is deemed unsuccessful. Unsuccessful communication can result in constant tension, power inequalities and disagreements. Relational Dialectics is a communication theory, formed by Leslie Baxter and Barbara Montgomery, in which personal relationships are judged upon the management of tension produced by contradictory forces. (Thrift, 2017). Each of the contradictory forces contain two components, an internal source, between the individuals in the relationship and and external source, which is interference from the outside world. The film Safe Haven (Bowen, Hallström, 2013), illustrates the successful use of the contradictory forces, as well as how to manage the tensions of selection, separation, neutralization and reframing set out by the theory of Relational Dialectics. Communication in romantic relationships may pose challenges among significant others when learning how to allude the tensions unexpected realities put upon them. Relational Dialectics, demonstrated by the characters of Katie and …show more content…

Relational Dialectics, in the film Safe Haven provide many internal and external solutions on how to alleviate tensions that form when overcoming the obstacles reality enforces on a relationship. Dialectics may work backstage in a relationship beyond partners’ mindful awareness or ability to identify and describe them, but still contributing to a sense of unsettledness or instability in the relationship (Montgomery, 1993). Each dialect plays a special role in how communication works between Katie and Alex to overcome the new obstacles and tensions reality places on them daily. Without the use of the dialects and tension management the two would not be able to successfully communicate, leading to an unsuccessful