Editing Conflict resolution (section)

=== Relational dialectics theory ===
Relational dialectics theory (RDT), introduced by [[Leslie A. Baxter|Leslie Baxter]] and Barbara Matgomery (1988),<ref>Baxter, L. A. (1988). A dialectical perspective of communication strategies in relationship development. In S. Duck. (Ed.) Handbook of personal relationships (pp. 257–273). New York: Wiley.</ref><ref>Montgomery, Barbara. (1988). "A Dialectical Analysis of the Tensions, Functions and Strategic Challenges of Communication in Young Adult Friendships,"Communication Yearbook 12, ed. James A. Anderson (Newbury, CA: Sage), 157–189.</ref> explores the ways in which people in relationships use verbal communication to manage conflict and contradiction as opposed to psychology. This concept focuses on maintaining a relationship even through contradictions that arise and how relationships are managed through coordinated talk. RDT assumes that relationships are composed of opposing tendencies, are constantly changing, and tensions arises from intimate relationships.

The main concepts of RDT are:

* Contradictions – The concept is that the contrary has the characteristics of its opposite. People can seek to be in a relationship but still need their space.
* Totality – The totality comes when the opposites unite. Thus, the relationship is balanced with contradictions and only then it reaches totality
* Process – Comprehended through various social processes. These processes simultaneously continue within a relationship in a recurring manner.
* Praxis – The relationship progresses with experience and both people interact and communicate effectively to meet their needs. Praxis is a concept of practicability in making decisions in a relationship despite opposing wants and needs