After reading this chapter, you will be able to do the following:

1. Explain the relationship between positive/negative face needs and strategies for engaging in face-threatening acts (FTAs)
2. Make predictions about a relationship’s stability and satisfaction using principles of social exchange theory
3. Compare and contrast the central internal and external dialectics Baxter believes are inherent in close relationships
4. Articulate the complexities associated with information management using Petronio’s six principles of privacy management
5. Compare and contrast the major theoretical approaches to interpersonal communication
6. Provide systematic understanding of a professional situation by employing theories of interpersonal communication