Sherfield and Moody Cornerstones Topic: Communicate

Six Elements of Communication

Interpersonal Communication Dynamic form of communication between two or more people Three types: self-presentation goal: showing ourselves to others Instrumental goal: presenting information to meet our needs Relationship goals: helping to build meaningful connections with others

Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis The language we know, hear, and speak determines our interpretation and understanding of the world We are unconscious of this situation Each human’s “reality” is individual

Nonverbal Communication Any and all communication besides words Comprises the majority of a message’s meaning Examples: facial expressions, clothing, proximity

Classifications of Spatial Zones

Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) Sub-category of interpersonal communication Examples: texting, emailing, twittering Can infer and imply emotions May enhance quality of some relationships

Self-Disclosure How much are you willing to share about yourself? Personal disclosure is first step Affects quality of relationships What do you share? Insignificant facts Informational facts Highly significant facts

Think Globally, Act Locally Act with compassion for others Respect other cultures and beliefs Travel internationally Examine multiple viewpoints and philosophies Think differently to solve problems related to cultural differences Study historical perspectives on tensions among people

No Money for International Travel? Take a virtual global fieldtrip! Where have you always wanted to travel? Learn about other cultures, places, peoples

Ethnocentrism and Xenocentrism Ethnocentrism – belief that one’s own ethnic background is superior and tendency to fear or judge others as groups versus as individuals Xenocentrism – belief that other cultures are superior to one’s own culture and that one’s own culture has little value

Beliefs Exclusivism – rejection of others’ differing beliefs Inclusivism – tolerance of others’ beliefs Pluralism – giving legitimacy and validity to others’ beliefs in context

Prejudice and Discrimination Prejudice – preconceived opinion or feeling formed without knowledge, thought, reason Discrimination – an action based on prejudice against another (illegal act)

Conflict in Relationships Many try to avoid conflict Conflict is inevitable Use it to better relationships by seeking win-win solutions

Dealing with Difficult People Develop strategies to deal with people who: Gossip Manipulate Show off Goof off Stand by Complain Doom and gloom

Conflict Management Tips Check yourself first Don’t take it personally Ask questions and communicate needs Avoid physical and verbal confrontation Walk away to safety if necessary “Am I proud of my actions here?”

Topic Reflections Strengthen your interpersonal communication skills Use CMC along with face-to-face communication Turn off technology sometimes Develop a positive sense of self Let people into your life through self-disclosure Develop diverse relationships Maintain close friendships Learn to manage conflict