Interpersonal Needs Theory explains how an individual interact and communicate with others to meet his/her needs for better relationships. In order to create and sustain relationships, you need to meet these three basic needs.
1. Inclusion - It has two sides; > Wanted Inclusion- the need to belong. This is the desire to be recognized and be a part of the group.
Example: Nina: Mom, I want to join in our school's speech club. Mom: Yes honey, go ahead! I'm here to support you.
(Here, Nina expresses wanted inclusion.)
> Expressed Inclusion - the drive to include others. This is the desire to decide who to include in the group
Example: Speech Club President: I want Nina to be a part of our club. She has the potential and the willingness to learn. Members: Agree!
(It's so obvious who expressed the Expressed Inclusion here.)
2. Control - Also known as "Influence". It also has two sides; > Wanted Control- the need for others to lead
Example: Nina: I choose Ms. Martha to be the leader because she is the most responsible among us. Martha:????
(Nina expresses wanted control.) > Expressed Control - the need to lead
Example: Everyone hesitates to be the leader of the group so you volunteered. It's not because you have no choice but because you believe you have the guts and the potential.
3. Affection- Also known as "Connection". Same with the previous needs, it has two sides as well;
> Wanted Affection - the need to feel important and be liked by others
Example: Girlfriend: Am I important to you? Tell me! Boyfriend: Yes, you are. More important than you have imagined.
(The girlfriend shows wanted affection.)
> Expressed Affection - the drive to develop an emotional connection with others
Example: Boyfriend: You don't only have a beautiful face but a beautiful heart and soul. You mean so much to me! Girlfriend: I'm flattered!
(The boyfriend shows expressed affection.)
Hope this helps :)
