LAUNCHING YOUR STUDY OF COMMUNICATION THEORY Chapter 1 Em Griffin A First Look at Communication Theory, 7th ed.

CLICKER QUESTION Which description best fits: A HOUSE PLANT A REQUEST FOR WATER A HOUSEHOLD THAT APPRECIATES PLANTS A PART OF SOMEONE’S HOME

CLICKER QUESTION A THEORY IS: A. WHEN WE DON’T KNOW THE TRUTH B. A FICTION C. THE FINAL ANALYSIS OF HOW SOMETHING WORKS D. AN EXPLANATION

“This is a book about theories—communication theories”(p. 2). What is a theory? A theory offers an explanation; An integrated system of concepts, ideas and the relationships among them;

What is a theory? Some images (metaphors): Theories as Nets We work to make the mesh finer and finer Theories as Lenses Theories shape our perceptions by focusing attention on some features while ignoring others; Theories as Maps A guide through unfamiliar territory Caution: “The map is not the territory.”

WHAT IS COMMUNICATION? Working definition: “Communication is the relational process of creating and interpreting messages that elicit a response.” MESSAGES: SYMBOLIC ACTIVITY— CREATION OF MESSAGES: The communicator is making a conscious choice of message form and substance;

WHAT IS COMMUNICATION? INTERPRETATION OF MESSAGES: “Messages do not interpret themselves.” The meaning of the message is not in the words or gestures. A RELATIONAL PROCESS: Communication is a process—not a snapshot. Relational meaning, communication affects the connections among people MESSAGES THAT ELICIT A RESPONSE: The effect of the message upon people who receive it— Response—any cognitive, emotional, or behavioral reaction If there is no response, there is not communication