CommunicationEssential Human Behavior

What IS Communication?

Communication is the process by which individual use symbols and behaviors to exchange information

Share Meaning Create Understanding Develop Relationships

Communication is a process defined by six

characteristics:Communications is:1. Symbolic2. A Shared Code3. Linked to Culture4. Intentional5. Mediated6. Transactional

1. SymbolicSymbols such as language

2. A Shared CodeEncoding = mentally constructingDecoding = interpreting and assigning meaning

3. Linked to CultureShared beliefs, values, and practices

4. IntentionalReally? Interpersonal vs Intrapersonal

5. MediatedA medium to “transport” symbols; channels

6. Transactional Sender and Receiver

Functions of Communication:

Affiliation – gain acceptance

Achieve goals – task oriented

Influence others – control

The Linear Model

Modeling Communication

The Interaction Model

Modeling Communication

The Competent Communication Model

Modeling Communication

Perception

Process of becoming aware of objects and events from the five senses and beyond

How we assign meaning – the heart of communication

Quick categorization of information/input

Perception Process

Selection – identifying information we will attend to and which we will ignore (schemas)

Organization – filing system for the brain, categorization. (stereotyping)

Interpretation – making sense out of the information; assign meaning.

Changing our perceptions

Understand ourselves; self actualization

Understand how we manage our own circles of influence and identities – changes over time

Words crystallize perceptions

Check with others

Distinguish between facts and inference

Monitor the self-serving bias

Chapter 3

Language andCommunication

Language

The system of symbols (words) that we use to think about and communicate experiences and feelings

The Nature of Language

Language is symbolic

Words have multiple meanings Denotative meanings – consistent definition Connotative meanings – emotional response

Thought informs language and vice versa (cognitive language)

Functional Communication Competencies

• Using language to express feelings

• Using language to express creativity

• Using language as a form of ritual

Problems with Language

Situation and meaning Semantics – word meaning Pragmatics – appropriate use of words

Limits of Labeling

Problems with Language

• Confusing facts, opinions, and inferences–Fact: something true and

verifiable–Opinion: personal evaluations– Inferences: conclusions about

what we observe

The Dangers of Biased Language

• Biased language openly excludes or implies something negative

• Political correctness may not be the solution

Language in Context

• The relational context• The situational context

–High language: formal, polite, or “mainstream” language

–Low language: easy going language for more comfortable environments

Language in Context

• Technology as Context–When using technology, you

must use strong, clear language to make up for lack of nonverbal cues

–English has become the language of technology

–Acronyms and emoticons can enhance communication