Communication Definitions and Components

Communication Definitions

• Communication is a symbolic process shaping, maintaining, altering, and transforming reality.
• It's a dynamic and ever-changing process adapting to the current situation.
• It's the exchange of messages between two or more people.
• It's the transmission of information, emotions, skills, etc., through symbols (words, images, etc.).
• Unintentional communication, like actions, can also transmit messages.
• Communication depends heavily on the circumstances surrounding it.
• It's impossible not to communicate.
• Power dynamics are always present in communication.
• Culture and communication are inseparable.

Components of Human Communication

• Key components include sender, encoding, message, channel, noise, receiver, decoding, receiver response, feedback, and context.
• A process model visualizes these components.
  • Sender: Initiates the message.
  • Encoding: Converting the message into symbols.
  • Message: The conveyed content (verbal or nonverbal).
  • Channel: The method of transmission.
  • Noise: Interference disrupting the message.
  • Receiver: Receives the message.
  • Decoding: Interpreting the message's meaning.
  • Receiver response: The receiver's reaction.
  • Feedback: Receiver's response indicating understanding.
  • Context: The overall environment.

Communication as a Process

• Communication is a complex process involving interconnected and interdependent elements working toward a goal.
• Though individual interactions have beginnings and ends, communication is continuous.
• It influences interpersonal relationships.

Communication as Dynamic

• Culture and Communication are energetic and constantly evolving.
• Intercultural interactions are interdependent, dynamic, variable, and irreversible.
• Each interaction is unique.

Communication as Interactive and Transactive

• Interaction between multiple people is a crucial part of communication.
• Active participation in directing messages is essential for communication.
• Communication is both a sending and receiving, interpreting process (transactive).
• It's two-way and interactive.

Communication is Symbolic

• Meanings are conveyed via learned verbal and nonverbal symbols.
• Cultural symbols are arbitrary (no inherent link to meaning).
• Language distinguishes humans from other animals.
• Communication involves encoding and decoding messages.
• Different languages utilize diverse symbols for written communication.

Communication is Intentional and Unintentional

• Interpretations of intent and meaning are always possible in messages.
• Miscommunication is more likely between people with different backgrounds.
• Intercultural communication is complex due to differing understandings about proper communication styles, gender norms, or appropriate behavior.
• Both intentional and unintentional behaviors convey messages.

Communication is Situated and Contextual

• Communication happens within a specific context defining message meaning.
• Context influences both verbal and nonverbal communication.
• Different contexts may have different communicative norms leading to potential misinterpretations in intercultural communication.

Communication as Pervasive

• All interactions transmit messages about the individual.
• Human existence is defined by communication, which is symbolic and continuous.

Communication as Power-Infused

• Power plays a role in the communication process.
• The more powerful often dictate the communication flow.
• Cultural and linguistic differences can create power imbalances.

Communication as Cultural

• Communication and culture are interconnected.
• Culture shapes communicative norms.
• Linguistic relativity suggests language impacts thought and communication behavior.
• English, with many varieties, is influenced by local cultures.
• Different cultures utilize diverse communication styles and nonverbal behaviors.

This quiz explores the various definitions and components of communication. Delve into the dynamic nature of communication, its symbolic processes, and the key elements involved in human interaction. Test your understanding of how culture, power dynamics, and context shape communication.