Interpersonal Communication

Definition The communication that occurs between two or more people Skills involved: Developing relationships Responding to others Communication thoughts and feelings Giving and accepting criticism

Stages of building relationships Acquaintances 2. Friendships 3. Close relationships

Principles of Interpersonal Communication 1.We Cannot not communicate 2. Interpersonal communication is Irreversible Interpersonal Communication involves Ethical Choices 4. People Construct Meanings in Interpersonal communication Talking about communication affects meanings Interpersonal Communication Develops and Sustains Relationships Interpersonal Communication does not absolutely solve all problems Interpersonal Communication can be learned.

List the things that you talk about with each kind of friend Acquaintance Friendship Close Relationships

Building Healthy Relationships

A good relationship involves relationships that are satisfactory to both of you.

Feature of a satisfactory relationship Investment (time, energy, thought and feelings) Commitment (decision to stay in a relationship) Trust

Building Healthy relationships relate to each other with empathy. share feelings and use an appropriate level of self-disclosure engage in personal growth through improved interpersonal skills. RESPECT EACH OTHERS OPINIONS!!!!

Maintaining and Improving Relationships Empathize and be sensitive ot the other person’s feelings. Demonstrate your support f the other person in times of need Listen to the other person Share your feelings Speak with honesty while respecting the other person’s feelings Enjoy your relationship

Responding to Others

Responding to Others RESPECT Definition- a high regard, honor, or esteem that you have for other People.

Or Being sensitive to the thoughts and feelings of others!

Respecting Others: Treat people with courtesy Respect the other person’s opinions Be tactful Respect the other person’s right to be heard.

Check your perception for understanding Ask clarifying questions Paraphrase to understand meanings

Skill 1: Clarifying Questions Are you saying that…? Do you think that...? What did you mean by…? Would you mind repeating what you just said? I’m not sure I understand.”

Paraphrase- restate what you heard in your own words. “So, what you’re saying is…” “ I take it that you believe…” “What I heard you say is…”

Communicating Your Thoughts and Feelings

Self-Presentation Private self The part of yourself which is most true to your self-concept Public Self That part of yourself that you choose to share with others. Vs

Self-Disclosure Voluntarily sharing personal information or feelings with another person for the purpose of building a relationship

Judging What is appropriate to share Increase the level of sharing gradually. Share private information only with someone you trust Continue to share only if the other person confides in you

Disclosing your Feelings Avoid withholding your feelings Avoid displays of negative feelings Describe your feelings (use I-statements)

I-Statements Use I-statements instead of “You Statements. “I feel angry when you repeat things I told you in confidence because trust in a relationship is very important to me.” is less judgmental than: “You are so untrustworthy and gossip about everyone including me.” You statements break down communication because the other person becomes defensive.

Three Parts of an I-Statmene State the emotion that YOU feel: “ I feel… Behavior- Describe their behavior or conditions that make you feel this way: “when….” Why- explain the effect that the behavior has on you.

Be Assertive Assertiveness is standing up for your personal rights.

Constructive Criticism Feedback that is helpful and beneficial rather than disapproving **** AVOID ATTACKING THE PERSON****

Lack of clear communication causes misunderstandings Causes of misunderstanding: making assumptions Not paying close attention Not making sure that you understand what is being said

How to Give Constructive Criticism Choose an appropriate time and place Choose only one or two specific points for criticism Describe the person’s behavior carefully and accurately Respond to the present, not the past. Try to include ideas for solutions

How to Accept Constructive Criticism Think of criticism as an opportunity for improvement Make sure that you understand what you hear. Recognize those who use constructive criticism