Comparison of Functional and Dysfunctional Relationships - Research Paper Example

Title: Functional and Dysfunctional RelationshipsIntroductionRelationships undergo different stages of development which come in sequence. The stages include the romance, power struggle, stability stage, commitment and co-creation stages according to Gendlin (2001). The romantic stage is experienced when couples first meet. It is filled with a lot of fantasies but is usually short lived. The power struggle stage, on the other hand, is characterized by many arguments. One partner requires the other to change a habit or behavior while they personally do not want to make certain lifestyle adjustments.

The stability stage is where each partner acknowledges that he/she is different from their partner and embrace this positively. In the commitment stage, the couple is now ready to settle down with each other. Practically, remarkably few people get to the co-creation stage which is characterized by the existence of couples who have decide that they were meant to be together and continue to strengthen their relationship (Miltenberger 45).Functional RelationshipsA functional relationship is a harmonious relationship between two individuals in a given situation such that both parties are emotionally fulfilled.

The individuals involved put all their efforts to nurture their relationship ensuring that it succeeds so that they can reap the maximum benefits (Giannet 14). It is established if a procedure is implemented and the process is repeated over and over again so as to improve behavior (Miltenberger, 32).In Desperate House Wives there are a number of functional relationships that take place at the Romance stage. This is clearly seen from the relationship between Susan and Mike. Mike is seen as a social misfit because everyone thinks that he is responsible for the death of Mary Alice.

Susan has a kidney problem and Mike stands by her. Although she has been told that she has only a few months to live, but through all these, Mike still helps her through (Website). They always work as a team and have always been able to resolve any issues that come their way.Lynette and Tom have a functional relationship too. They are in the commitment stage, with some of their children being grown-ups. A lot has taken place in their lives, and they are able to overcome so many challenges (Website).

Though they face a major challenge when Tom gets a job that keeps him away from home, they try to work on their relationship together; nobody blames the other for their problems.Dysfunctional RelationshipsDysfunctional relationships are those that emotionally deprive the individuals involved such that they do not perform their functions adequately. A dysfunctional relationship may be come to be if one person in a relationship is more involved than the other, instead of both contributing equally to the establishment.

In other words, a dysfunctional relationship results when one individual tends to care more about what his or her partner is up to while the other does not seem to be bothered. Such relationships result in unhealthy interactions and do not add any value to the individuals involved or to the relationship. In desperate housewives, Bree and Orson have a dysfunctional relationship. They always fought and have a number of unresolved issues. Orson even blackmails Bree which is unfortunate for people who are trying to resolve their issues.

For a functional relationship to thrive there is need for communication at each and every stage. If the power stage is not well handled, chances of the relationship surviving are minimal, thus leading to a dysfunctional relationship.ReferencesGendlin, E. (2001).Experiencing and the Creation of Meaning: A Philosophical and Psychological Approach to the Subjective. Glencoe: Northwestern University Press: Giannet Stanely. The Dysfunctional Relationships. 2008. Boston: Cathedral Rhapsody Press. Miltenberger R. (2008).Behavior Modification Principles and Procedures. Belmont. Thomson Higher Education.

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