Leslie A. Baxter

Leslie A. Baxter is a communication scholar known for her research on how people form, maintain, and sometimes change their close relationships, such as friendships and romantic partnerships. She developed influential theories like the Relational Dialectics Theory, which explains the ongoing tensions and contradictions people experience in relationships—such as wanting intimacy but also independence. Baxter’s work helps us understand the dynamic nature of human connections, emphasizing that relationships are constantly evolving through managing these competing needs and ideas. Her insights are valuable for improving communication and understanding within personal relationships.