often distorted by the recipient. Thus, if "B" distrusts "A," "B" will become evasive, attempt to put herself or himself in a more favorable light, or will express exaggerated disagreement with "A." As a consequence, "B" may attempt to be quite accurate in communication with "A"; however, the potential or such accurate communication is reduced because of the low level of trust existing between the two parties (Abell & Gecas, 1997).
Pleasant matters are more likely to be the subject of communications where interpersonal trust is not strong than are unpleasant matters, and achievements are more likely to be the subject of communications in such an environment than are problems and difficulties. The accuracy of communications is a function of trust (Major, Zubek, Cooper, Cozzarelli, & Richards, 1997). Individuals with high internal security levels distort communications less than do individuals with low internal security levels. Security is a primary need which must be fulfilled before effective interpersonal communications may be established.
Abusive behavior destroys trust between parties. Individuals with high internal security levels distort communications less than do individuals with low internal security levels. Security is a primary need which must be fulfilled before effective interpersonal communications may be established. Abusive behavior undermines security (Allen, Baucom, Burnett, Epstein, & Rankin-Esquer, 2001).
Behavioral system balance is a manifestation of successful adjustments and adaptations, even though observed behavior may not appear to be consistent with accepted cultural or biologic norms for healthy behavior. Living systems can and do operate at varying levels of effectiveness and efficiency, but, to be able to operate at all, some minimum level of balance, both internally and externally, must be maintained. A behavioral system possess sufficient flexibility to react effectively to usual varia...