Effective Communication

Communication? The transfer of information and understanding that occurs between two or more individuals, in which each individual tries to give meaning to certain symbolic messages conveyed through a particular media.

What is being communicated? Facts Events Perception Ideas Needs Desires Beliefs

Elements of Communication SENDER RECEIVER MESSAGES MEDIA FEEDBACK NOISE

Types of Communication Verbal Communication Language, words Talking, sending a letter Non-verbal Communication Tone of voice Eye contact Body gesture Touch Speech Intonation Use of physical space & time

Types of Communication Things that are not often realized  words that are spoken are not the main thing that is perceived by the receiver of the message. The receiver of the message notices other things aside from what is being spoken. In providing psychosocial support, non-verbal communication is very important. It helps when communicating with others of a different culture.

Factors that Promote Communication Empathy Assertive behavior Giving feedback to the receiver of the message Direct communication through face to face meetings Use of simple and direct language Mutual trust Warm personality

Factors that Can Obstruct Communication Physical limitation Language / semantic limitation Psychological limitation

Characteristics of Effective Communication The message is simple and comprehensive. Mutual trust exists. Appropriate to the situation and existing conditions. Use of proper body language. Interactive situation is made. Verification of whether the message is understood by the receiver.

Active Listening

Active Listening Not the same as mere listening. Basics of communication for psychosocial support. Without active listening, someone will not realize the problems of those they are talking to. As a result, someone will find difficulties in providing assistance. How to do it…???

Practicing Active Listening Do not interrupt someone when he speaks. Empathy with the person we are talking to. Be involved in the conversation and maintain involvement. Ask questions then make a conclusion. Put off judging, criticizing or giving advice. Show sincere attention. Give feedback.

Gestures that show Active Listening Sit facing each other Body gesture shows openness Body is leaning forwards Eye contact Relaxed attitude

Useful to overcome psychological obstruction during communication. Obstruction 1: Permissive Behavior  Not willing to express ideas, asking questions to avoid being perceived as stupid. Assertive Obstruction 2: Aggressive  Expressing desires inappropriately that can be detrimental to others.

Assertive Learn to know what you want and how to communicate it to others in a nice and sincere manner. Do not let others impose their desires on to you particularly on things you are opposed to. Voice out your rights, ideas and desires without harming others. How to do it…???

Practicing Assertive Communication Realize your rights, desires and opinions. Try to feel comfortable with yourself. Accept yourself including your strengths and weaknesses. Use well mannered and polite speech. Respect differences in opinion. Notice the body language of the person you are talking to in order to obtain feedback.

Understand what is being thought Empathy Understand what is being thought and felt by others. Practicing it : Be sensitive towards yourself and realize your own thoughts and feelings. Be sensitive towards others. Observe the non-verbal language of the person you are speaking to. Do not make a conclusion in haste. Avoid prejudice.

Receive and Give Feedback Feedback helps you to: Realize your own behavior Change your behavior Feel content with your behaviour.

Receive & Give Feedback Feedback can be in the form of: Information on your strengths and weaknesses Recommendation Questions

To be noticed when giving feedback Make sure the person whom you will give feedback is ready to accept. Pay attention to your tone of voice. Explain the observed behavior and its repercussions rather than merely giving an evaluation. When giving feedback, focus on behavior that can be improved. Refer to yourself by using the word “I”

Communicating With the Survivors Establish a positive first impression. Create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Be honest and sincere. Look at the person’s face with kindness and occasionally look into their eyes. Always try to understand survivors. Conduct active listening. Do not give advice, suggestions, lectures if not asked. Do not evaluate quickly. Give the survivor the freedom to show their vulnerabilities. Act calm and relaxed.

Informing Bad News Inform the news in a clear and concise manner. Pay attention to your body language and respond according to the situation. If the person that receives the news is unable to accept the fact, acts hysterical or falls unconscious, realize that it is a normal reaction. If the case mentioned previously occurs, give a a calming statement, express your concern and if possible touch the person. Gentle human touch can calm people’s reactions.