Academic Writing Sample
This writing sample is a small portion of the final paper for my Human Communication Theory class. It’s the introduction to my research interview study, in which I interviewed someone and utilized social exchange theory to garner some key takeaways from the interviewee’s insights. The paper is titled “Examining Romantic Relationships with Coexisting Mental Illnesses Using Social Exchange Theory.”
(Note: If you would like to read my entire study, feel free to shoot me a message.)
Introduction
Romantic relationships are complicated and unique. Two individuals being in love has profound potential for happiness and contentment, and yet, partnerships are often a messy series of highs and lows, and trials and tribulations. Rarely are they black and white; rather, they are riddled with shades of gray, and sometimes, this leads to uncertainty and conflict. What happens, then, when mental illness is added to this figurative equation? One potential path of discovery regarding this question can be explored by considering these relationships through the lens of social exchange theory.
Social exchange theory can help guide research of the differences between these relationships and non-mutually mentally ill couples. This theory can help break down and offer an understanding of the nuances of a relationship in which mental illness is a prominent concern. This can lead to insights regarding how these relationships can be effectively nurtured, especially when compared to partnerships where mental illness is not a salient consideration. Understanding how mental illness affects the social exchanges between two individuals in a romantic relationship is a noteworthy cause, as conclusions that stem from using social exchange theory can help offer couples a deeper understanding of their individual needs and pave a positive path towards relationship satisfaction.
A major pain point is that couples in which both partners have mental illness often struggle with the fact that their issues are not always excessively common nor candidly discussed, so knowledge regarding this topic can be scarce. With knowledge of relationship exchanges from utilizing social exchange theory, these couples can adjust and adapt their existing relational modus operandi to help themselves engage in a happier, healthier relationship.