Role Relations W8/D1

After reflecting on my own personal experiences with role relations I have come to the conclusion that competitive symmetry can be the most difficult to change while rigid complementary may prove to be the most damaging to the self-esteem of the particular individuals involved.

Competitive symmetry reminded me of sibling rivalry or of friends who are constantly trying to compete with one another. I believe that this role relation usually develops between individuals who have similar personalities. Because of the similarity many may feel that they have to prove something; prove that they are better. This role relation can also occur between those who are innately competitive, and because the competitive trait can be innate, I would assume that is why it can be the most difficult to change. Although those in a competitively symmetrical relation could discuss amongst themselves solutions to their competitiveness, I believe that there will always be an underlying sense of competition between one or both those involved in the relationship. They may no longer voice the competitiveness, but it could continue to show in their thoughts and actions.

In terms of rigid complementary, I drew on my experiences and knowledge of parent to child relationships. As stated by Trenholm, although there are advantages to this role relation, problems can occur. For instance, the individual in the submissive role can resent the constant control of the dominant individual or the dominant individual can tire of always being in charge. Although those who find themselves in rigid complementary relationships can easily find solutions to their problems, for instance children and parents can mature and eventually become equals or close to equals in a relationship, I believe that great damage can be done within the time of rigid complementary relationships. For instance the constant nagging or put downs from the individual in the dominant role can lower the self-esteem of the individual in the submissive role. Or the individual in the submissive role can be conditioned to never voice their opinion or always cater to others while the individual in the dominant role can become too used to always having control.