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Interpersonal Relationships
Communication
Communication:
o
The process of creating
and exchanging meaning
through symbolic
interaction.
Types of Communication
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Verbal
Gestures
Body language/Eye Contact
Tone of voice
Clothing
Silent Treatment
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Why do we communicate?
How important is
communication?
1211 A.D. – “Frederick II,
Emperor of Germany, in
an attempt to discover
the natural "language of
God," raised dozens of
children in silence. God's
preferred language never
emerged; the children
never spoke any language
and all ultimately died in
childhood” (van Cleve,
1972).
Why We Communicate
Physical Needs
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Socially isolated people are 4 times more
likely to get sick that those with active
social circles.
Socially isolated people are 2-3 times
more likely to die early.
Divorced men die from heart disease,
cancer and strokes at double the rate of
married men.
The rate of all types of cancer if five times
higher for divorced men and women.
Why We Communicate
Identity Needs
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A person’s sense of identity comes from
interactions with others.
Supportive relationship can transform
feelings of inadequacy into self respect,
and damaging ones can lower self
esteem.
Ask Yourself: Are you smart, attractive,
talented, mature? How do you know?
Your modes of communication tell others
what you think about yourself.
Why We Communicate
Social Needs
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Everyone has a need for pleasure,
affection, companionship, escape,
relaxation and control. It is through
communication that these needs are
satisfied.
Relationships of all kinds are so vital
that many scientists argue that
communication is the primary goal
of human existence.
Why We Communicate
Practical Goals
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Instrumental Goals: Getting others
to behave in ways we want
Communication skills are a top
factor in finding employment
opportunities.
General needs are met through
communication.
Abraham Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Communication Is A Process
Linear Model
Communication Is A Process
Transactional Model
Problems With Communication
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Body Language
Volume
Physiological Problems
Psychological Problems
Noise
Language Barrier
Good Speakers vs. Bad Speakers