Interpersonal Communication is at the centre of human relationships. It is therefore a course of study that as humans, we cannot do without. In this text, the author has x-rayed what the course is all about within the purview of Mass Media and Communication Studies. There are nine chapters in all. The first chapter starts with the definition and overview of Interpersonal Communication. It describes how Interpersonal Communication is a means of shared meaning, as interpersonal relationship and as a means of transaction. It looks at the importance of nonverbal communication in the context of Interpersonal Communication. Chapter two specifies different types of Interpersonal Communication including Dyad, Micro-group, Macro-group and mediated; the principles guiding Interpersonal Communication and its relationship with extra-personal communication. It also situates the communication contexts of ATMs, POS and such like.
The third chapter explores the characteristics of Interpersonal Communication, the elements of Interpersonal Communication such as people, messages, channels, effects and feedback. It goes further to present the different Interpersonal Communication contexts including physical, psychological, social, cultural, and temporal. In the fourth chapter, the functions of Interpersonal Communication such as influence, social, psychological, and information are specified. What to do to enhance Interpersonal Communication skills, including the ten tips for good Interpersonal Communication and the Axioms of Interpersonal Communication are found in this chapter.
Table of Contents
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Chapter Nine
Objectives and Topics
This text explores the fundamental dynamics of interpersonal communication within the context of mass media and communication studies, aiming to provide students with the theoretical framework and practical skills necessary to enhance human relationships and communication competence.
- The foundational definitions and processes of interpersonal communication.
- Classification of communication types and the role of technology.
- Critical analysis of communication elements, contexts, and principles (axioms).
- Examination of group dynamics, leadership styles, and theoretical perspectives on behavioral change.
- Practical strategies for self-development, active listening, and effective relationship management.
Excerpt from the Book
3.1 Characteristics of Interpersonal Communication
The following are some of the features or characteristics of interpersonal communication:
1. Interpersonal communication involves two persons. One primary characteristic of interpersonal communication is the fact that it involves two individuals. This feature immediately distinguishes it from other kinds of communication such as intra-personal, extra-personal, extra-mundane, group and mass communication. This also rules out the communication we have with our pets such as cats, dogs and such like. It indicates that it differs from what takes place between an individual and his electronics or electrical devices such as mobile phones, ipads, laptops and walkman.
2. Interpersonal communication involves feedback. Interpersonal communication involves direct feedback. Feedback is the message sent by the receiver back to the sender. In interpersonal communication feedback is often immediate, obvious and continuous. This means that the term interpersonal communication does not include radio or TV newscaster whose messages go from source to audience but do not return. In other words, there is no immediate feedback to the source from the audience.
3. Interpersonal communication is affected by context. Context of interpersonal communication refers to all the human and environment factors which preceded, will follow and are at work during the actual exchange of messages. Communication does not occur in a vacuum. There are countless stimuli that affect what is meant, what is said and what is understood in a message exchange. Individuals involved in interpersonal communication must be in a position to receive signals from each other.
Summary of Chapters
Chapter One: Defines interpersonal communication as a transactional process of shared meaning and highlights its essential role in human existence.
Chapter Two: Classifies interpersonal communication into types such as dyadic, group, and mediated, while distinguishing these from extra-personal interactions.
Chapter Three: Explores the core elements, characteristics, and environmental/psychological contexts that influence effective interpersonal communication.
Chapter Four: Examines the functional importance of communication and provides axioms and tips for improving interpersonal skills.
Chapter Five: Differentiates interpersonal communication from other forms, specifically intrapersonal, impersonal, and mass communication.
Chapter Six: Analyzes the dynamics of group communication, including roles, norms, status, power bases, and various leadership styles.
Chapter Seven: Reviews theoretical perspectives, including Interpersonal Needs Theory, Individual Differences, Exchange Theory, and Attitude Change Theory.
Chapter Eight: Discusses the intersection of communication, attitude, and behavioral change through Cognitive Dissonance and Social Cognitive theories.
Chapter Nine: Focuses on self-concept, self-disclosure, the Johari Window, and strategies for effective listening and overcoming listening barriers.
Keywords
Interpersonal communication, feedback, dyad, group dynamics, self-concept, self-disclosure, active listening, nonverbal communication, cognitive dissonance, social cognitive theory, humanism, communication axioms, interpersonal needs, interpersonal relationship, behavioral change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this text?
The text provides a comprehensive overview of interpersonal communication, serving as a foundational course for students in tertiary institutions, particularly within mass communication departments.
What are the central themes of the work?
Key themes include the definition and classification of communication, the role of feedback, communication contexts, group dynamics, and theories related to behavioral and attitudinal change.
What is the primary goal of the author?
The primary goal is to equip students with the theoretical understanding and practical skills required to navigate and improve interpersonal relationships effectively.
Which scientific methods or frameworks are utilized?
The text integrates communication theories such as Watzlawick’s Five Axioms, Schutz’s Interpersonal Needs Theory, Festinger’s Cognitive Dissonance Theory, and Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory.
What is covered in the main body of the work?
The main body covers communication types (dyadic, micro/macro-group, mediated), communication elements, the influence of context, leadership styles in groups, and the development of self-concept and listening skills.
Which keywords best characterize the study?
Important keywords include interpersonal communication, feedback, self-disclosure, group dynamics, listening, and relational management.
How does the author explain the "Johari Window"?
The author presents the Johari Window as a tool to examine the relationship between self-disclosure and feedback, dividing awareness into four quadrants: open, blind, hidden, and unknown.
What is the significance of "role duality" in a dyad?
Role duality describes the simultaneous performance of the roles of sender and receiver by both members of a dyad, highlighting the transactional nature of interpersonal interaction.
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- Anthony Uche (Autor:in), 2018, Interpersonal Communication for Tertiary Institutions, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1130380
