Chapter Four: Communicate Cornerstone: Creating Success through Positive Change 6th edition Robert M. Sherfield & Patricia G. Moody Chapter Four: Communicate This multimedia product and its contents are protected under copyright law. The following are prohibited by law: any public performance or display including transmission of any image over a network; preparation of any derivative work, including the extraction, in whole or in part, of any images; any rental, lease, or lending of the program.

How Does Communication Work? Communication takes up much of our lives: Verbal communication Written communication Actions

Six Elements of Communication The source – originator of communication The message – what is being communicated The channel – how the message is expressed The receiver – person who gets the message Barriers – interference with message Feedback – reaction to message by receiver

Interpersonal Communication Dynamic form of communication between two or more people Three types: self-presentation goal: showing ourselves to others Intstrumental goal: presenting information to meet our needs Relationship goals: helping to build meaningful connections with others

Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis The language we know, hear, and speak determines our interpretation and understanding of the world We are unconscious of this situation Each human’s “reality” is individual

Nonverbal Communication Any and all communication besides words Comprises the majority of a message’s meaning Examples: facial expressions, clothing, proximity

Classification of Spatial Zones

Computer-Mediated Communication Sub-category of interpersonal communication Examples: texting, emailing, twittering Can infer and imply emotions May enhance quality of some relationships

Tips for Using CMC Never send an electronic message that you would not want the public to see Choose your words carefully before pressing “SEND” Never send a CMC message when you are angry – wait and reevaluate!

Self-Disclosure How much are you willing to share about yourself? Personal disclosure is first step Affects quality of relationships What do you share? Insignificant facts Informational facts Highly significant facts

Seek Friendships with Those Who… Treat you well and equally Bring new ideas and experiences to your life May be different than old friends Have ambition and courage Have healthy work habits and work ethic Have pride in their personal character Enjoy college and learning Are outgoing and adventurous Have goals and a mission in life

Stay Safe in New Relationships Don’t go out alone with a stranger Make sure someone knows your plans Don’t go to a stranger’s residence If someone becomes controlling or abusive, sever the relationship immediately

Conflict in Relationships Many try to avoid conflict Conflict is inevitable Use it to better relationships by seeking win-win solutions

Dealing with Difficult People Develop strategies to deal with people who: Gossip Manipulate Show off Goof off Stand by Complain Doom and gloom

People and Conflict Management Tips Check yourself first Don’t take it personally Ask questions and communicate needs Avoid physical and verbal confrontation Walk away to safety if necessary

Chapter Reflections Strengthen your interpersonal communication skills Listen to others, especially during conflict Use CMC along with face-to-face communication Turn off technology sometimes Develop a positive sense of self Let people into your life through self-disclosure Develop diverse relationships Maintain close friendships Learn to manage conflict