Performing a Contradiction: Honest but Hurtful Messages in Romantic Relationships

• In Event: Negotiating Relationships through Language and Social Interaction

Abstract

Persons involved in romantic relationships expect certain communicative behavior from their partners. Honest communication is one common expectation. Emotionally supportive communication is another. However, in some situations, simultaneous regard to these expectations is seemingly impossible. The purpose of this paper is to examine the delivery of an honest but hurtful (HBH) message to a romantic partner, and to highlight the deferential rituals utilized in this contradictory interaction. Dialectic theory is used to frame this study.

Author

• Noah Franken, University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point