Relationship dynamics: Assertiveness and self-confidence relate to each other in a positive cycle
The Relationship Dynamics section of PREPARE/ENRICH allows couples to identify tendencies each partner displays within their relationship across the four interrelated areas of Assertiveness, Self-Confidence, Avoidance and Partner Dominance.
The following series of blog posts will discuss each area and the techniques used to explore these concepts with couples, in order to use the Relationship Dynamics section to its full potential. First, let's define the four interrelated areas that make up Relationship Dynamics:
Assertiveness - the ability to express one's feelings and ask for what one wants in the relationship
Self-Confidence - how good one feels about oneself and their ability to accomplish what they want in life
Avoidance - the tendency to minimise issues and reluctance to deal with issues directly
Partner Dominance - how much one feels controlled or dominated by their partner.
Understanding the positive and negative cycles... Assertiveness and self-confidence relate to each other in a positive cycle. The idea is the more assertive a person is, the more self-confident they are, which allows them to be more assertive, and so on. The positive cycle strengthens both dynamics by the nature of how they are interrelated.
Cycles are not always positive though... Avoidance and partner dominance relate to each other in a negative cycle. The more avoidance a person introduces into the relationship, the more they allow space for their partner to dominate, which perpetuates the avoidance, and so on. Thus a negative cycle is occurring.
Tune in next week for more tips and learnings and the value of knowing and using The Relationship Dynamics section of PREPARE/ENRICH.
Marriage and Relationship Education is a learning opportunity, much like you would do in any other important life event. Check out the video for couples on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xyuUl-JnIhM.
Tune in next week for more discussion about relationships and mental health.
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Written by Shane Smith