Introduction
Interpersonal relationship can be defined as an association, connections or social affiliations between two or more individuals. Interpersonal relationships vary in terms of levels of intimacy and revolve around a common objective or shared interest. Interpersonal relationship is very important amongst a group of individuals; it is a skill that enables one relate well with others in a group (Cahn & Cushman, 1985).
Healthy Interpersonal Relationships
Interpersonal relationships keep people who share a common objective together; however, it is not without some challenges that they end up disintegrating a group of people who have a common purpose. Hence there need for ways of ensuring healthy interpersonal relationships.
Communication is a major element of interpersonal relationships. It is good to note that poor communication amongst members in a group or within an organization is likely to cause interpersonal tension amongst. This may lead to unhealthy interpersonal relationship. It is always important for each individual within a given group of people to have communication skills that enhance his or her relationships with others (Kyle, 2007).
Respect for others is another important way of ensuring healthy interpersonal relationships. Every person has the need to be respected and valued within any group context.
In order to ensure and retain healthy relationship, it is in order for every person to respect the people he or she is relating with; besides, the respect should be coupled with some level of trust between those relating together. Mutual trust is required from the communicating partners. In many cases, is not all, the way one communicates with others is likely indicator of whether he she trusts them or not.
This has the potential to strain interpersonal relationship even if it does not come into the open. In situation where such components of respect and trust are missing, a relationship may be strenuous and disintegration may be the ultimate fate of such a relationship (Kyle, 2007).
In a relationship there is bound to be mistakes made by others. These mistakes may necessitate reactions by others. They way one reacts or criticizes others determines whether a healthy relationship is sustained or not. In cases where one is blamed for the mistakes, healthy relationships may not be achievable, while in situations where people give positive criticism and offers to help find a solution, healthy relationships are established and sustained.
It is therefore important that in any form of interpersonal relationship, individuals should focus on finding solutions to any challenge or problems arising between two or more people. This is most likely to foster healthy interpersonal relationships.
Interpersonal relationships may exist between people with varied cultural backgrounds. In such cases, it is only important that each individual exercise tolerance. One may not like the background of another, but it is important to understand one another in such contexts without necessarily being prejudicial.
This will help secure healthy interpersonal relationships. Being tolerant is about accepting that people are different in varied aspects and should be respected. The difference may be in terms of cultural practices, race, ethnicity and even academic. All these factors, if well managed, can ensure healthy interpersonal relationships (Altman, 2009).
Conclusion
Interpersonal relationships are associations and linkages between two or more people who share a common interest, goal or objective. There are many factors that contribute to healthy interpersonal relationship. These include effective communication, tolerance and respect and trust amongst others (Cahn & Cushman, 1985).
Reference List
Altman, N. (2009). Palmistry: The Universal Guide. New York: Sterling Publishing Company, Inc.
Cahn, D. & Cushman D. (1985). Communication in interpersonal relationships. New York: SUNY Press.
Kyle, T. (2007). Essentials of pediatric nursing. New York: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.