Chapter 1

Question 1

Define interpersonal communication

Answer 1

A dynamic form of communication between two or more people in which the messages exchanged significantly influence their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships.

Question 2

What are four aspects of interpersonal communication?

Answer 2

1. Dynamic
2. Transactional
3. Dyadic
4. Impact

Question 3

Define dynamic

Answer 3

Communication that is constantly in motion and changing over time.

Ex: The flow of a Skype conversation: Tense and awkward to warm connection to sadness and regret as you say goodbye.

Question 4

Define transactional

Answer 4

Both parties contribute to the meaning. Note: there are certain instances like consoling someone in which IC is not transactional.

Ex: Exchange of expressions of affection between romantic partners.

Question 5

Define dyadic

Answer 5

Involves pairs of people. Note: sometimes there are more people involved.

Ex: Conversation between two family members. Not just a conversation with self.

Question 6

Define impact

Answer 6

It changes participants thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships.

Ex: In order to have an effective IP conversation one must be open minded and have a welcoming heart.

Question 7

What is the I-Thou concept?

Answer 7

A way to perceive a relationship based on embracing fundamental similarities that connect you to others, striving to see things from others points of view and communicating in ways that emphasize honest and kindness

Question 8

What is the I-It concept?

Answer 8

A type of perception and communication that occurs when you treat others as though they are objects that are there for your use and exploitation.

Ex: Dismissing some by saying, “I don’t have time for your stupid questions. Figure it out yourself.”

Question 9

Define channel.

Answer 9

The sensory dimension used to transmit information during communication.

Ex: Apologizing to someone by making a sad face, touching them lightly on the shoulder, and saying I’m sorry.

Question 10

Define media

Answer 10

Tools used to exchange messages, including everything from newspapers, blackboards, and photographs to computers, smartphones, and television.

Question 11

Meta-communication

Answer 11

Verbal or nonverbal communication about communication. Aim at better understanding others’ communication.

Aka messages that have communication as their central focus.

Ex: I was actually joking when I sent you that text message or What did he mean when he said that.

Question 12

What are the four principles of interpersonal communication?

Answer 12

1. Conveys both content and relationship information
2. Can be intentional or unintentional
3. Is irreversible
4. Is dynamic

Question 13

Interpersonal comm can be intentional or unintentional

Answer 13

People attach meaning to nearly everything you say and do whether you intended to send a message or not.

Good rule of thumb: When you are interacting with others, most of what you say and do will be perceived as communication.

Question 14

Interpersonal communication is irreversible

Answer 14

Every time you communicate interpersonally, you and the other person affect your future communication and the quality of your relationship.

Question 15

Interpersonal communication is irreversible

Answer 15

Every time you communicate interpersonally, you and the other person affect your future communication and the quality of your relationship.

Ask yourself: Is what I’m about to say going to lead to outcomes I want?

Question 16

Interpersonal communication is dynamic

Answer 16

When you interact with others, your communication and all that influences it - perceptions, thoughts, feelings, and emotions - are constantly in flux.

Question 17

Why is interpersonal comm so important?

Answer 17

It is key to our survival mentally and emotionally. It fulfills a profound human need for connection that we all possess.

Question 18

Self-presentation goals

Answer 18

desires you have to present yourself in certain ways, so that others perceive you as being a particular type of person.

Question 19

instrumental goals

Answer 19

pratical aims you want to achieve or tasks you want to accomplish through a particular interpersonal encounter.

Question 20

Relationship goals

Answer 20

building, maintaining, or terminating bonds with others is achieved through interpersonal comm

Question 21

Interpersonal communication competence

Answer 21

consistently communicating in ways that are appropriate, effective, and ethical.

Question 22

Appropriateness

Answer 22

the degree to which your communication matches situational, relational, and cultural expectations regarding how people should communication. Aka following accepted norms.

Question 23

Self-monitoring

Answer 23

the process of observing our own communication and norms of the situation in order to make appropriate communication choices.

Question 24

Effectiveness

Answer 24

the ability to use communication to accomplish self-presentation, instrumental and relationship goals.

Question 25

Ethics

Answer 25

the set of moral principles that guide our behavior toward others.