1. AFTER STUDYING THE MATERIAL IN THIS CHAPTER . . .
You should understand:
You should be able to:
1. The working definition and
characteristics of communication.
2. The types of communication covered in
this book.
3. The needs satisfied by communication.
4. The characteristics of linear and
transactional
communication models.
5. The characteristics of competent
communication.
6. Common misconceptions about
1. Define communication and give specific
examples of the various types of
communication introduced in this chapter.
2. Describe the key needs you attempt to
satisfy in your life by communicating.
3. Use the criteria in this chapter to identify
the degree to which communication
(yours or others’) in a specific situation
is competent and suggest ways of
increasing the competence level.
4. Identify how misconceptions about
communication can create problems
and suggest how a more accurate
analysis of the situations you describe
can lead to better outcomes.
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2. It occurs between humans It is a process It is symbolic
CHAPTER HIGHLIGHTS
Communication, as we will study it in this book, possesses three important characteristics:
It occurs between humans
It is a process
It is symbolic
There are several different types of communication introduced in this chapter:
Intrapersonal
Dyadic/interpersonal
Small group
Public
Mass
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3. Communication helps satisfy a number of needs in our lives:
CHAPTER HIGHLIGHTS
Communication helps satisfy a number of needs in our lives:
Physical needs
Identity needs
Social needs
Practical needs
Models of communication help us understand what is involved in this process:
The linear model is familiar, but overly simplistic
The transactional model better describes how people communicate
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4. Defining the nature of competence and how it is acquired
Communication competence is a measure of a person’s effectiveness. This chapter explores competence by
Defining the nature of competence and how it is acquired
Outlining the characteristics of competent communicators
Clarifying certain misconceptions about communication helps us understand how the process works effectively. We will consider
the following clarifications of common misconceptions:
Communication doesn’t always require complete understanding
Communication isn’t always a good thing
No single person or event causes another’s reaction
Communication won’t solve all problems
Meanings rest in people, not words
Communication isn’t as simple as it often seems
More communication isn’t always better
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Figure 1-1 Linear Communication Model
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Figure 1-2 Transactional Communication Model
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