People use many different ways to communicate their feelings. Writing a note Facial expressions Communication is critical to healthy relationships. Communicating Effectively

Classify forms of communication and apply criteria for using passive, aggressive, or assertive communication. Demonstrate communication skills needed to build and maintain healthy relationships with family, friends, peers, and others. Apply communication skills that demonstrate consideration and respect for self, family, friends, and others. In this lesson, you’ll learn to: Lesson Objectives

Being an effective communicator means that you correctly interpret the messages you receive and respond appropriately. Basic Communication Skills Three basic skills are needed for effective communication: 1. Speaking 2. Listening 3. Body language Effective Communication

Communication Styles Passive communicators do not stand up for themselves or defend their attitudes or beliefs. Aggressive communicators often try to get their way through bullying and intimidation. Assertive communicators defend their attitudes and beliefs, but they also respect the rights of others. Effective Communication

Speaking Skills You demonstrate good speaking skills when you clearly say what you mean. Changes in the tone, pitch, or loudness of your voice can affect communication. Using “I” messages can help you communicate your feelings positively, without blame or name-calling.“I” messages Effective Communication

Stating Your Feelings Effectively Effective Communication

Listening Skills You can make use of active listening to improve your communication skills. active listening Active listening involves giving your full attention to whatever the speaker is saying without interrupting or making judgments. Effective Communication

Tips for Active Listening Make direct eye contact. Use body language and signals, which show you are listening. Don’t interrupt the speaker. Put away prejudices, images, or assumptions. Effective Communication

Techniques for Active Listening Reflective listening: Rephrase or summarize what the other person has said. Clarifying: Ask questions to help understand more fully what is being said. Encouraging: Encourage the speaker to signal that you are interested and involved. Empathizing: Imagine and understand how someone else feels. Effective Communication

Nonverbal Communication You use body language when you nod or shake your head to show that you agree or disagree with something that is said.body language When you hold yourself in a tense posture, you silently communicate that you’re feeling nervous or worried. Nonverbal communication can be subtle, taking place at an unconscious level. If your words and your body language seem to contradict each other, the person you are speaking to may be confused or unsure of what to believe. Effective Communication

Obstacles to Clear Communication Image and identity issues Unrealistic expectations Lack of trust Prejudice Gender stereotyping Eliminating Communication Barriers

Image and Identity Issues Many teens spend at least part of their teen years searching for an identity. If someone is unsure of his or her values, the uncertainty can complicate the communication process. Eliminating Communication Barriers

Unrealistic Expectations Avoid imposing unrealistic expectations on your listener. This may cause the individual to become frustrated or defensive. Eliminating Communication Barriers

Lack of Trust Good communication is built on trust between two people. If you believe that you can’t count on a person to tell you the truth or to keep a confidence, communication is very difficult. Eliminating Communication Barriers

Prejudice Prejudice prevents a person from having an open mind and listening to new information. To avoid developing prejudices, you can demonstrate tolerance.tolerance Being tolerant helps you understand the differences among people and recognize the value of diversity. Eliminating Communication Barriers

Gender stereotyping is a type of prejudice that involves having an exaggerated or oversimplified belief about people of a certain gender. Assuming that all males like sports and that all females enjoy cooking are examples of gender stereotyping. Gender Stereotyping Eliminating Communication Barriers

Constructive Criticism Constructive criticismConstructive criticism is intended to bring about positive changes. You may find that giving the person feedback in a more positive manner helps him or her and your relationship. It is very important to begin your discussion by using an “I” message to explain how you feel. Point out what the person is doing or has done, and suggest a better way to do it. Constructive Feedback

Expressing Yourself Expressing and receiving respect, admiration, and appreciation with grace and sincerity can help you build and maintain healthy relationships. It shows that you do not take the relationship for granted, and it demonstrates good sportsmanship and good character. Acknowledgements and Compliments