Principios de Comunicación de Palo Alto

Palo Alto School of Communication Principles

• The Palo Alto School of Communication emerged in the 1950s and 60s, primarily at the Palo Alto Institute for Communication Research. It focused on interpersonal relationships, analyzing communication breakdowns.

• A key principle is interdependence. People are interconnected in their communication, with actions influencing reactions in a circular pattern, unlike earlier linear models.

• The school extensively studied communication problems in families, couples, and groups to understand interaction dynamics.

• Interactional Symmetry and Complementarity: This describes how people interact. Symmetrical interactions involve matching behaviors (positive or negative). Complementary interactions involve mirroring but opposite behaviors, often achieving a balance.

• Congruence and Incongruence: Congruence is matching verbal and nonverbal communication; incongruence is a mismatch. Incongruence frequently leads to misinterpretations and mistrust.

• Communication as a Transaction: Communication is a simultaneous exchange; each participant responds to and shapes the others' message, creating a continuous dynamic interaction.

• The Importance of Context: The situation, relationships, and culture influence communication. Considering context is essential to avoid misinterpretations.

• "Rules" of Interaction: Communication follows implicit rules that govern interactions. Awareness of these rules improves understanding and prediction of outcomes.

• Feedback and Circularity: Feedback is continuous and integral to the interaction; actions have reciprocal effects. Communication is circular, highlighting the unending nature of this process.

• "I" Messages vs. "You" Messages: "I" messages, focusing on personal feelings, promote constructive discussion. "You" messages, focused on criticism, often lead to defensiveness.

• The Importance of Uncovering Underlying Assumptions: Recognizing unspoken assumptions can reveal the root causes of communication breakdowns, fostering better understanding and conflict resolution.

Key Principles of Communication (Beyond Palo Alto)

• Ethics in Communication: Ethical communication includes truthfulness, respect, and consideration for others' feelings.

• Clarity and Conciseness: Clear, concise language minimizes misunderstandings.

• Active Listening: Empathetic listening fosters a sense of being heard.

• Nonverbal Communication: Nonverbal cues (body language, tone) significantly impact message interpretation.

• Emotional Intelligence: Managing one's own emotions and understanding others' improves communication.

• Feedback: Constructive feedback clarifies messages and builds understanding.