Knapp's Relational Model

For the interpersonal relationship I would like to discuss is my relationship with my girlfriend. It is still relatively new, so I thought it would be interesting to analyze it on a deeper level. After researching and reflecting on Knapp's Relational Model I believe that my relationship with my girlfriend is in the integrating phase, but I would like to take a step back to reflect how we got to that stage. We first met at work and on my first day, I saw her and went up to her to introduce myself. This would be the first stage, initiation. Next would be experimentation, which is the exploration of one another. In this stage, we both would find new conversation starters, account for common interests and gage each others sense of humor for example. After probing and slowly getting to know each other, we reached the intensifying stage. This is where spent quality time together, took each other out on special dates, gave each other flowers and communicated the relationship goals and expectations. This intensifying stage easily led to the integration phase. This is where we officially became girlfriends, integrated each other into our different social lives and told our families about the relationship. During this stage we realized how being apart of each others lives was nothing short of simple and easy, we fit perfectly in and there was no cross-fire from integrating each other into one another's lives. From initially getting one another's phone numbers and personal information, it was very easy to stay in touch online when we were not able to see each other in person. Having the ability to communicate online and over text does allow us to feel connected in the busy lives we have, but communicating in person is still the main priority and preferred method of communication between each other. Please enjoy the photo of my lovely girlfriend! 

Links:

https://www.communicationtheory.org/knapps-relationship-model/