Knapp's Relationship Model

For this week's discussion, we're looking at Knapp's Relationship Model, which shows how a relationship can thrive or decay based on certain circumstances. I think the concept of a relationship constantly developing and dying is interesting, but can also help me pick up on some relationships I've had in the past.

My best friend and I met in 6th grade while we were both on the same soccer team. I wouldn't say she really became my best friend until our Sophomore year of high school. I think that the 2-year separation due to the pandemic cemented our friendship, as we only talked to each other. Since then, we have been emotionally inseparable, and she is the most important person in my life. I would say that we are in the bonding stage of Knapp's Relationship Model, as we both recognize how much we mean to one another and have spoken about our friendship and its development over the years. We are at a point in our friendship where we know everything about each other and simply enjoy being together. I never recognized the steps of our friendship and how much more personal it has gotten in the last few years. Even though she's going to college 6 hours away from me, we still manage to maintain our friendship, and I think that speaks volumes about how strong our bond is. 

Here's my favorite picture of us!!