Chapter 1

Question 1

A group of interrelated elements that affect one another. Communication is systemic.

Answer 1

System

Question 2

Arbitrary, ambiguous, and abstract representations of phenomena. Symbols are the basis of language, much nonverbal behavior, and human thought.

Answer 2

Symbols

Question 3

Verbal and nonverbal response to a message. The concept of ____ as applied to human communication appeared first in interactive models of communication.

Answer 3

Feedback

Question 4

A systemic process in which people interact with and through symbols to create and interpret meanings.

Answer 4

Communication

Question 5

An ongoing continuity, the beginning and end of which are difficult to identify; for example, communication.

Answer 5

Process

Question 6

The extent to which a system affects and is affected by its surrounding environment

Answer 6

Openness

Question 7

A state of equilibrium that systems strive for but cannot sustain.

Answer 7

Homeostasis

Question 8

The significance we attribute to a phenomenon; what it signifies to us

Answer 8

Meaning

Question 9

One of two levels of meaning; the literal information in a message.

Answer 9

Content level of meaning.

Question 10

One of two levels of meaning in communication; expresses the relationship between communicators.

Answer 10

Relationship level of meaning

Question 11

Anything that interferes with the intended meaning of communication; includes sounds (e.g. traffic) as well as psychological interferences (e.g. preoccupation)

Answer 11

Noise