Change Processes in Relationships: A Relational-Historical Research Approach
Cambridge University Press, 5/25/2006
EAN 9780521858809, ISBN10: 0521858801
Hardcover, 302 pages, 22.9 x 15.2 x 2.1 cm
Language: English
Originally published in English
Just as each person develops from infancy to adulthood, all interpersonal relationships have a life history that encompasses the changes in how people communicate with each other. This book is about how a relationship transforms itself from one pattern of communication to another. The authors present a unique research method called 'relational-historical research', based on advances in dynamic systems theory in developmental psychology, and qualitative methods in life history research. It rests on three premises: that the developing relationship (not the individual) is the unit of analysis; that change emerges from, but is not entirely constrained by, the patterns of the past; and that the developmental process is best revealed by making frequent observations within a particular case before, during, and after a key developmental transition. Looking specifically at the mother–infant relationship, this is a compelling piece of research that will appeal to an international audience of intellectuals and practitioners.
Prologue
overview of the research problem and summary of findings
1. Relationships as developing systems
theoretical foundations
2. Mother-infant relationship development in the first six months
from face-to-face play to object play
3. Relational-historical research on development change
4. Relational-historical research
the case study approach, frame analysis, qualitative and quantitative analysis
5. Research propositions about relationship change process
6. Research methods for the current investigation
subjects, procedures, and data analysis
7. Results of the current investigation
quantitative analysis of developmental changes in relationship frames and in infant actions
8. Results of the current investigation
qualitative analysis of Richard and his mother
9. Results of the current investigation
qualitative analysis of Betsy and her mother
10. Results of the current investigation
qualitative analysis of Lewis and his mother
11. Results of the current investigation
qualitative analysis of Susan and her mother
12. Summary of finding on relational-historical change
Epilogue
laws of change, implications for theory and practice.