Co-constructing uniqueness: An interpersonal process promoting dialogue

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn this essay, we trace the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of dialogic interpersonal communication that facilitate the link between quality of communication and quality of life, and we highlight empirical research in interpersonal and family communication that draws inspiration from and/or reflects this approach. We re-introduce uniqueness as an important focus for interpersonal communication and emphasize the co-construction of uniqueness as a rare but decisive practice for enhancing interpersonal engagement. We begin by describing how we use the term “dialogue” and then conceptualize the co-construction of uniqueness as one of its most fundamental processes. We discuss the moral and ethical implications of making such claims and acknowledge the concept’s functional ambivalence. We then review contemporary research that exemplifies, draws inspiration from, and/or begins to approximate the process of collaboratively contacting each other as unique persons in dialogic moments that matter and present guidelines for practicing and studying the process of co-constructing uniqueness.