Knapp's Relational Model

 The Mentor-Mentee Relationship

Nowadays, online communication significantly impacts many aspects of our lives, including interpersonal relationships. One unique relationship influenced by this is the mentor-mentee relationship. In this blog post, I will analyze my current experience with my research mentor, Casey, focusing on the "Intensifying" stage of Knapp's Relational Model👨👩. 

According to LibreTexts, the "Intensifying" stage is where the relationship deepens, and the bond between those engage in relationship strengthens. The interactions become more meaningful. The conversations become more serious (LibreTexts, 2022). 

In the academic world, the mentor-mentee relationship is crucial. In the Intensifying stage of a mentor-mentee relationship, there are many activities and behaviors that Casey and I engage in to deepen our connection. During the Intensifying stage, we share more personal information, making our conversations more meaningful. At the same time, it also makes our conversations less formal. We are discussing work-related matters and sharing personal experiences, aspirations, and challenges. Casey and I frequently use WhatsApp or make phone calls instead of depending solely on email for communication📥. We often work along side each other and collaborate on research projects. Cooperating on important tasks helps lead to a stronger bond and a deeper understanding of each other's working styles and strengths💪.

The relationship we have extends beyond the work we do. We discuss life outside academics and provide each other support during personal challenges. At this point in our relationship, I also feel more comfortable seeking advice from my mentor, not only about academic or professional matters but also about life decisions. His willingness to guide me through my life has helped deepen our mentor-mentee relationship. 

I also value how my mentor acknowledges and celebrates my accomplishments, whether big or small. This recognition plays a crucial role during the Intensifying stage. Last but not least, we often exchanged birthday gifts🧧and small presents as a way to express our appreciation and maintain a warm and friendly connection as we progress through the Intensifying stage.

Impact of Online Communication

My mentor-mentee relationship has been profoundly affected by online communication📱. With the growth of technology and online platforms, it has become easier to connect with my mentor beyond traditional in-person meetings, offering new opportunities.

My mentor and I often meet via Zoom, allowing flexibility in scheduling and more frequent interactions. Since my mentor usually leaves the U.S. for his research🛫, online communication enables us to engage in thoughtful discussions and exchange ideas despite being in different places. Sharing documents and resources electronically made it easier for Casey and me to access research materials and engage in research projects, thus strengthening our relationship.

However, there are some limitations to online communication🙅. The absence of face-to-face interactions limits the emotional connection that typically occurs when people spend time together in person. These aspects are also crucial in the intensifying stage, where deeper bonds are developed.

In my opinion, while online communication allows for convenient exchanges, it can't fully substitute in-person interactions. Hence, it is important for my mentor and me to acknowledge the value of physical meetings and strive to find opportunities for face-to-face interactions as much as possible to nurture the emotional aspects of our relationship.

Citation

Libretexts. (2022, May 18). 8.3: Stages of relationships. Social Sci LibreTexts. https://socialsci.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Communication/Interpersonal_Communication/Interpersonal_Communication_A_Mindful_Approach_to_Relationships_(Wrench_et_al.)/08%3A_Building_and_Maintaining_Relationships/8.03%3A_Stages_of_Relationships