Relational Theory Assumptions and Implications of the Relational Theory

Relational theory aligns with traditional views of social work. This theory has special significance on relationships and the settings that women attest to. In the recent times, researchers and psychologist have perceived the dissimilarities in mental development between men and women (Saari, 2005). A key conclusion is that women strongly emphasize on relationships whereas men lay emphasis on individuation (Quinn and Grumbach, 2015). One of the main assumptions of the relational theory is the intrinsically and innately social nature of human beings. Based on the belief that people are socially founded and instituted by associations, relational theory seeks to understand the complication behind the formation of relationships (Mccauley, 2013). In particular, the relational theory puts forward that the relational nature of us as human beings' steers and instigates us to grow and develop through and in the direction of connection. As pointed out by Mccauley (2013), the term growth-fostering relationships were devised to signify relationships in which lively involvement by all parties results in mutual development. These kinds of relationships add to healthy operating and thriving environments. On the basis of this assumption, growth-fostering relationships take into account five key elements, which include energy, increased sense of worth, productivity, clarity and aspiration for higher, more improved values (Mccauley, 2013).

Another assumption within the relational theory is that as human beings we grow in the direction of an increase capability for respect, having an influence on the other, being open to being altered by the other in developing these sorts of relationships. In particular, growth-fostering relationships necessitate mutuality, which posits the collective hands-on progression of relationships, instead of signifying uniformity or impartiality between individuals. The relational theory also recognizes the actuality of multiplicity and inevitability of power disparities, while unfolding a track not only in the direction of healthy cohabitation, but also mutual enablement (Mccauley, 2013). The implication of these supposition lies in the belief that its absence lead to the development of mental issues and adds to the rise of vicious and intense conflict. The relational theory stresses that experiences of disconnection that interrupt or inhibit the intricately relational nature of human beings contributes to a state of human anguish and misery. On the other hand, experiences that support the determination of human beings in the direction of connection result in amplified...

This notion of mutuality has numerous implications for conflict resolution, for instance the imperative need for healthy reconnection (Mccauley, 2013).
How Relationships Fit in with the Relational Theory

Relationships fit in with relational theory in various ways. One of these ways is through a significant component of relational theory that takes into attachment styles, how they develop, and how they continue to impact people in the course of their lives. The style of attachment of us as human beings has an influence on all aspects, ranging from the choosing a partner to how well our relationships advance, unfortunately, to even how they come to a demise. As such, acknowledging the attachment pattern of us as individuals can aid in understanding our strong suits and susceptibilities in a relationship (Firestone, 2013). A pattern of attachment is instituted in early childhood attachments and in turn continues to operate as a working model for relationships in maturity. According to Firestone (2013), the model of attachment affects the manner in which all individuals respond to their needs and the actions that an individual undertakes to meet such needs. In particular, when there is a secure attachment pattern, an individual is self-confident and self-assured and has the capacity to interrelate easily with others, meeting the needs of an individual as well as those of others. Conversely, when there is an apprehension or avoidant attachment pattern, and an individual selects a partner that is fitting and suitable to that maladaptive pattern, then he or she will most probably be selecting a person who is not the suitable choice to make him or her content (Firestone, 2013).

Attachment

Attachment in adults can be learnt through attachment styles to understand how they affect their relation with others. In light of secure attachment, adults that are securely attached have a tendency of being more content in their relationships. The children also exhibit similar contentment as they consider their parents to be a secure foundation, from which they can go forth and explore the world by themselves. Secure adults provide support and comfort in times of misery and worry. On the other hand, different from secure attachment, individuals with anxious preoccupied attachment have a tendency of being anxious to form a relationship. They are usually not inclined to seek rescue and completion from other people. In turn, despite the fact that they are constantly seeking some sort of safety from their partners in the relationship by being dependent and insecure, such actions result in pushing their partner further away (Firestone, 2013).

Dismissive Avoidant

Dismissive avoidant attachment encompasses individuals that tend to emotionally distance themselves in relation to others. They have a preference of being in isolation and are usually perceived as being focused on themselves. As a result, they lead lives that are more private, refute the significance of their loved ones and easily detach from them. Normally, in relation to others, they have the capacity to shut down their emotions, not feel anything or have any reactions. For instance, their response in a distressing time in…