Communication Theory

Communication: Process of sharing information by using symbols to send and receive messages

Components of the Communication Model Sender- person who transmits the message Receiver- person to whom the message is directed to

Feedback- a return message Message- consists of the ideas/feelings that make up the content of communication Interference- anything that gets in the way of clear communication

    Linear Model Interference   Sender Receiver Encodes Message Decodes Describes communication as a one way event in which a message flows from a sender to a receiver.

Interactive Model Interference     Sender Receiver Encodes Message Decodes   Receiver Message/Feedback Sender Decodes Encodes Describes communication as a two way event in which the sender and receiver exchange messages in response to one another.

3. Encoding & Decoding Messages As an effective communicator, you must determine how to send and interpret messages.

Encoding Decoding Planning how you want to state a certain idea. Formal communication requires careful encoding. Decoding The receiver translates the message into meaning that makes sense in their given context.

4. Interpreting Feedback Formal Communication: Most feedback is nonverbal Smile for approval, yawn for boredom, etc. Informal Communication: Feedback is frequently in verbal and nonverbal forms. Smiling for support Asking questions for clarification

5. Dealing with Interference Interference – Anything that gets in the way of clear communication. Three types of Interference: Physical Noise Psychological Noise Semantic Noise

Physical Noise Psychological Noise Semantic Noise Sounds that prevent a person from being heard Psychological Noise Thoughts and feelings that distract people from listening to what is said Semantic Noise Caused by words that trigger strong negative feelings against the speaker or the content of the speech. Leads to misunderstandings

4 Basic Needs Fulfilled by Communication Physical Needs Identity Needs Social Needs Practical Needs

Physical Needs Communication effects health The presence or absence of satisfying communication effects stress, blood pressure, depression, etc.

Identity Needs We learn who we are through communication. We become who we are in response to the reaction of others.

Social Needs There are 3 social needs fulfilled by communication: Inclusion Control Affection

Inclusion Control Affection The need to feel a sense of belonging to some personal relationship. Control The desire to influence others or to feel some sense of power over your own life. Affection The need to know that we matter to other people.

Practical Needs The communication needed for everyday functions in life.

5 Types of Communication Intrapersonal Communication Interpersonal Communication Small Group Communication Public Speaking Mass Communication

Intrapersonal Communication Communication within yourself Interpersonal Communication Communication between two or more people

Small Group Communication Public Speaking Communication between 4 – 12 people Public Speaking Communication where one person addresses an audience Mass Communication Using technology to communicate with many.

Developing the Communication Process 5 Steps

1. Finding Ideas Need something interesting to talk about. Always consider your audience, the setting, and the time allowed. Crucial for group discussions and public speaking.

2. Adapting to Your Audience As a speaker, you must meet the needs of your audience. This allows you to anticipate their response, interpret their feedback, and respond appropriately.

3 categories of audience characteristics you need to consider: Individual Characteristics Cultural Characteristics Sociological Characteristics

Individual Characteristics The audience’s Personality Interests Background Goals

Cultural Characteristics The audience’s: Age Religion National/ethnic background

Sociological Characteristics The audience’s: Educational background Occupations Affiliations

Communication Settings Informal Settings Formal Settings

Informal Communication Informal settings - casual & unstructured Majority of your communication Usually spontaneous (think as you speak)

Includes: Talking with friends and family Introducing people Giving instructions Talking on the telephone Giving and receiving information in class Asking for directions

Formal Communication Prepared for ahead of time Much less of your communication time, but these situations can influence people in important positions.

Includes: Job and college interviews Group discussions Public speaking Debate/Parliamentary procedure Interpretive situations Mass communication