Communication Principles

Words As Symbols

• Words are representations or symbols for things but have no inherent connection to those things
• The relationship between a word and its meaning is arbitrary and can change over time
• Words are influenced by our perceptions, and our perceptions are shaped by words
• People in the same culture have a general understanding of word meanings

Ambiguity of Words

• Because people have unique experiences, words have a range of meanings that most members of a culture agree upon
• This ambiguity is useful for communication, but it can also lead to misunderstandings

Static Evaluation

• Static evaluation is when someone assesses something as fixed or unchanging
• Example: Saying "You're so disrespectful" implies that the person is always disrespectful

I vs. You Language

• Using "I" language focuses on personal feelings rather than blaming the other person
• Example: Instead of "You're so disrespectful," say "I feel disrespected when you..."

Totalizing

• Totalizing is when we reduce a person to one aspect of their identity
• This can lead to prejudice and discrimination

Language and Culture

• The words and phrases used in a culture reveal cultural values
• Example: The way time is perceived in American culture vs. Korean culture

Language Shapes Perception

• The words we use can reveal our feelings and influence how we perceive people, places, and situations
• Example: The language used by satisfied vs. unsatisfied couples

Language For Abstract Thought

• Language allows us to think about abstract ideas and hypothetical concepts
• Examples: freedom, integrity, equality, the past, the future
• This ability fosters growth as individuals and societies

Profanity: Dark Side

• Profanity is often considered offensive
• It is often associated with negative emotions like anger and rage
• It is linked to verbal aggression and can be used to abuse
• It can increase feelings of distress during conflict

Profanity: Light Side

• Younger people use profanity to assert their independence
• Profanity can bond people together
• It can be used to release tension and emphasize strong feelings
• It may increase pain tolerance

Words are Symbols

• Words are representations (symbols) of something, not the thing itself
• Words are abstract and influence our perceptions
• Our perceptions influence the words we choose
• Words are arbitrary, no natural connection between the word and what it represents
• The meaning of words can change over time

Words are Ambiguous

• Words have a range of meanings
• Most members of a culture agree on the meaning of words, however, unique experiences can lead to individual interpretations

Words Have Weight

• Words have power, and the choice of words can affect how we perceive others, the world, and ourselves
• Using specific language can help us communicate clearer and more effectively
• Avoid static evaluations, instead, focus on how we feel and our personal perspective
• Instead of using “you” language, focus on “I” language, describing how the other person’s action makes you feel
• Avoid making totalizing statements, that reduce individuals to a single characteristic

Language and Culture

• The words and phrases used in a culture can reveal cultural values
• Examples include:
  • American culture views time as commodity and talks about it as such
  • Korean culture refers to a parent as “____’s mom” rather than by name
  • Japanese culture introduces oneself last name first, first name last
  • Cultural differences affect many aspects of communication

Language and Perception

• Words can reveal our feelings
• The words we use can influence the way we perceive the world
• Examples include:
  • Restaurant descriptions affect how we perceive food dishes
  • The language used by satisfied and dissatisfied couples, differs significantly
  • “Political speak” is an example of language used to influence perceptions
  • Labels for different groups, both preferred and offensive, can affect perceptions

Language and Thought

• Language allows us to hold onto and reflect on abstract ideas (freedom, integrity, equality)
• Language allows us to conceptualize things that don't currently exist, past and future
• Our ability to think abstractly helps us grow as individuals and as a society

Masculine Behaviors and Expectations

• Assertive, dominant, and goal-oriented
• Action-oriented and independent
• Emotionally reserved and focus on success
• Competitive, strong, and hyper-sexual
• Societal expectations often discourage feminine traits

Feminine Behaviors and Expectations

• Nurturing, dependent, and submissive
• Focus on relationships and emotional expressiveness
• Domestic, supportive, and communicative
• Emphasizes physical attractiveness

Social Learning Theory and Gender Roles

• Individuals learn masculine or feminine behaviors during childhood through external stimuli.
• This learning process is influenced by:
  • Parents
  • Friends and peers
  • Media

Gendered Speech Communities

• Masculine and feminine speech communities have distinct levels of meaning and orientations.
• Levels of Meaning:
  • Content: Literal information in a message.
  • Relational: What the message signifies about the relationship.
• Orientations:
  • Instrumental Orientation: Closeness through doing.
  • Expressive Orientation: Closeness through dialogue.
• Masculine speech communities often prioritize instrumental orientation, while feminine speech communities prioritize expressive orientation.