Communication

The exchange of information through the use of words or actions Communication The exchange of information through the use of words or actions

Verbal Communication Expressing feelings, thoughts, or experiences with words, either by speaking or writing

Nonverbal Communication Getting messages across without using words

Body Language Postures, gestures, and facial expressions

Ways to Express Yourself Through Speaking 1. Think about what you want to say before you say it 2. Use “I” messages to express your thoughts, feelings, needs, and expectations

Cont…. 3. Use tact..Avoid being rude or insulting 4. Make clear, simple statements. Be specific. Use examples when you express ideas or suggestions

Tact The sense of what to do or say to avoid offending others

Think of a tactful way to respond in each situation Think of a tactful way to respond in each situation. Remember, using tact means you are still honest, but you use your words carefully to avoid hurting someone’s feelings. 1. For Christmas, your grandmother gives you a sweatshirt which you think is ugly. She asks how you like it. What should you say? 2. You are watching TV and the phone rings. Your mom answers it and tells you it’s Jane. You don’t like Jane and don’t want to talk to her. What should you say? 3. Your friend gets a new baby sister and you think it is the ugliest baby you’ve ever seen. Your friend asks you, “Isn’t she the cutest?” What should you say? 4. Your teacher is walking down the hallway with a piece of trash stuck to her shoe heel. What should you say? 5. Your friend has been talking for 10 minutes with a big piece of broccoli stuck between his teeth. What should you say? 6. You are visiting your friend’s house and your friend’s mom serves liver and onions for dinner, which you think is disgusting. What should you say?

Listening Skills Use body language to show you are listening: look them in the eyes, nod your head Take advantage of pauses: “Really” or “Tell me more about that”

Listening Skills Cont… Do not interrupt: if you don’t understand politely ask questions to understand When possible, mirror what you hear: rephrase what you hear and be sympathetic to feelings

Writing Skills Advantages of writing: You can make changes before you send your message Disadvantage: If your message isn’t clear the receiver can’t always ask what you meant

Family The basic unit of society and includes two or more people joined by blood, marriage, adoption or a desire to support one another

Different Types of Families A couple – two adults living together Nuclear family – a husband & wife and their child or children Blended family – one stepparent, one parent, and one or more children

Types of families cont…. Single-parent family – one parent and one or more children Extended family – parents, children, and other family members such as grandparents

Influences your Family has on You Helps you develop beliefs and values Helps influence decisions you make The type of activities you participate in The foods you eat Help you choose to not participate in risky behaviors

Family Roles Parent – providing a place to live, food, love and emotional support Children – cooperate and respect parents, help with chores, help with younger siblings As children get older responsibilities change As you get older responsibilities change!!

Ways Families Can Strengthen Relationships 1. Show appreciation for each other (saying Thank You) 2. Support other family members 3. Spend quality time together (eat dinner together) 4. Communicate effectively

Relationships cont… 5. Show responsibility – share work in the house equally 6. Show respect – respect each other’s privacy and things 7. Follow family rules – helps build trust

Ways to Deal with Change 1. Keep up normal routines 2. Talk openly about the change 3. Outside help may be needed from counselor or religious leader

Changes that Happen… Moving Divorce or remarriage Job change/Job loss Birth of sibling/adoption Illness or injury Death or loss

Friendship A relationship with someone you know, trust, and regard with affection

Acquaintance Someone you see occasionally or know casually Some acquaintances can become good friends through time

Having Friends… Teaches you to communicate Teaches you to work out problems Teaches you to compromise Teaches you how to give others support Teaches you how to share your life with others

Qualities of a Good Friend Trust – based on honesty Caring – will listen and wants what is best for you Respect – they won’t ask you to do anything that could hurt you Loyalty – stay together in good times and bad

Tolerance The ability to accept other people as they are You are respectful of a person’s individual differences, race or culture

Compromise When both sides in a conflict agree to give up something in order to reach a solution that satisfies everyone Find a way to “meet in the middle”

When Should You NOT Compromise???? When you would have to act against your values When you might end up harming yourself or others When it is against the law

Peers People close to you in age who are a lot like you Peer pressure – the influence that your peer group has on you

Peer Pressure Encouraging acts against the law Bribes, dares, or threats Teasing/Name calling Suggest you do the right thing Encourage you to study more, stay away from drugs, volunteer NEGATIVE POSITIVE

Refusal Skills Strategies that help you say no effectively

Four Effective Refusal Skills The “STOP” Formula Say no in a firm voice Tell why not Offer another idea Promptly leave