INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP

MEANING OF INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP
An interpersonal relationship can be defined as the rmutual, harmonious, and symbiotic relationships that exist between and among people in a community.
In other words it can be seen as an Association between two or more people that may range from fleeting to enduring or a strong bond between two or more people.
It can also be described as a mutual respect for one another in the community. This respect often bring the Spirit of oneness and togetherness in the community.
Types of Interpersonal RelationshipRelationship
Friendship: Close associates usually form friendships and it is often stated that ‘a friend in need is a friend indeed’. The relationships between and among friends transcend race, background, colour, religion, affluence and educational qualifications. A friend is someone that one can trust and rely upon. “Show me your friend and I will know the person you are” is a popular adage that indicates that people usually associate with people of their kind.
Family relations: This is the relationship that is characterized by blood ties, i.e people of the same blood relate together at this level. Family communication patterns establish rules, identities and enable the growth of individuals.
Marriage Relation: This refers to the type of relationships that exist between married couples. Such a relationship is intimate, requiring affection, sexual fulfillment, physical attractiveness and intimate conversation.
Professional/ Business Associations: This refers to members of the same professional or organisational group working to achieve a collective goal for their profession or business. They develop healthy interpersonal relationship to further boost their output or performance. For example in Nigeria, we have, Nigeria union of teachers (NUT) , Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) e. t. c.
Individual and Government Relationship: citizens determine the type of government they want through their elected representatives. The power of the government therefore resides with the Citizens. The relationship between the citizen and the government must be mutual, with respect from both partners.
Government to Government relationship: Otherwise called international relations is a mutual rrelationship between governments and this is very important for the promotion of world peace and security. The relationship between one government and other governments must be based on mutual respect for the laws and regulations of each country. Such international bodies is the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) United Nations (UN) African Union (AU) and the European Union (EU) regulates the relationships between and among Nations and regions of the world.
STAGES OF RELATIONSHIP
Acquaintance stage: Becoming acquainted depends on previous relationships. Continued interactions may lead to the next stage, but acquaintance can continue indefinitely.
Build up stage: During this stage, people begin to trust and care about each other. The need for intimacy and compatibility are common background and goals which will influence whether or not interaction will continue.
Continuation stage: This stage follows a mutual commitment to a long-term relationship or marriage.
Deterioration stage: Not all relationships deteriorate, but those that tend to show signs of trouble. Boredom, resentment and dissatisfaction may occur, and individuals may communicate less and avoid self-disclosure.
Termination stage: The final stage marks the end of the relationship, either by death in the case of a healthy relationship, or by separation.
Qualities that promote interpersonal relationships
Honesty
Tolerance
Kindness
Caring
Patience
Respect of Elders
Empathy
Effective communication
Forgiveness.