- Explain the difference(s) between friendship-based intimacy and passion-based intimacy.
- Describe the five sometimes overlapping stages of childhood friendships.
- Define friendship and list at least six qualities of friendship.
- Define the circumplex model of family interaction, and explain how it can be used to describe the dynamics of functional and dysfunctional families.
- Faysal, the CEO of a technological sales company, has noticed that many of his employees are building friendships with one another. He is concerned that friendships in the workplace will lead to too many issues and detract from business-matters. Faysal comes to you, his trusted friend, to discuss his concerns and to ask you for advice. He says, "I just don't see any benefit to having friendships in the workplace." How would you respond?
The difference(s) between friendship-based intimacy and passion-based intimacy.
Full Answer Section
- Passion-Based Intimacy:
- Involves physical attraction, romantic feelings, and desire.
- Can be present in romantic relationships or strong crushes.
- Focuses on intense emotional connection and physical intimacy.
- Five Stages of Childhood Friendships:
- Stage 1: Playmates (Ages 3-4): Parallel play, simple interactions.
- Stage 2: One-Way Friendships (Ages 4-7): Focus on one friend, may be possessive or demanding.
- Stage 3: Two-Way Friendships (Ages 7-11): Reciprocity, cooperation, shared activities.
- Stage 4: Intimate Friendships (Ages 11-15): Deep emotional connection, self-disclosure.
- Stage 5: Mature Friendships (Adolescence and beyond): Acceptance of differences, loyalty, support through challenges.
- Friendship Definition and Qualities:
- Friendship: A close relationship between two people characterized by mutual affection, trust, and common interests.
- Qualities of Friendship:
- Trust and honesty
- Respect and empathy
- Communication and understanding
- Loyalty and support
- Shared interests and activities
- Ability to have fun and enjoy each other's company
- Circumplex Model of Family Interaction:
- Emotional Warmth: Ranges from high levels of affection and support to coldness and criticism.
- Control: Ranges from high levels of parental control and rigidity to laxity and permissiveness.
- Disengaged: Low warmth and control (distant and uninvolved).
- Authoritarian: Low warmth and high control (strict and controlling).
- Permissive: High warmth and low control (overly permissive and lacking structure).
- Workplace Friendships:
- Increased Morale and Engagement: Friendships can create a more positive work environment, leading to higher employee satisfaction and productivity.
- Improved Communication and Collaboration: Friends may feel more comfortable communicating openly and working together effectively.
- Problem-Solving and Support: Friends can offer support and encouragement to each other, contributing to a more positive and collaborative problem-solving environment.
- Favoritism or Conflicts of Interest: Ensure promotions and decisions are based on merit to avoid accusations of favoritism.
- Social Cliques and Exclusion: Be mindful of cliques forming that could exclude others.
Sample Answer
Relationships and Workplace Dynamics
Here's how I can address your questions:
1. Friendship-Based Intimacy vs. Passion-Based Intimacy:
- Friendship-Based Intimacy:
- Focuses on emotional closeness, trust, shared experiences, and mutual understanding.
- Involves feelings of warmth, support, and camaraderie.
- Not necessarily romantic or sexual in nature.