Understanding Communication

Definition of Communication

• Communication is the process of sending and receiving information, feelings, and ideas between individuals for mutual benefit.

Purpose of Communication

• Providing information
• Sharing feelings
• Persuasion
• Motivating others
• Entertainment

Elements of Communication

• Sender/Speaker: the person giving the information
• Receiver/Listener: the person who receives the message
• Message: the information transferred
• Feedback: the reaction of the receiver

Types of Communication

• Internal Communication: within oneself, exemplified by the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:17-19)
• External Communication: with others, demonstrated by conversations between Jesus Christ and various individuals (e.g. the Samaritan woman, Zacchaeus, Nicodemus)

General Requirements of Effective Communication

• Speaker:
  • Show interest in the listener
  • Use language that is understood and appreciated by the listener
  • Consider the listener's feelings
  • Choose the right time and place to speak
  • Understand the nature of the listener
• Listener:
  • Show interest in what they hear
  • Summarize what they heard
  • Assure the speaker that they are understood
  • Avoid giving an opinion until the speaker finishes
  • Avoid distractions (e.g. using a cell phone)
  • Avoid interrupting

Obstacles of Communication

• Lack of interest in the other person
• Inconsistent body language
• Previous judgment on others
• Different goals between the speaker and listener
• Using language that is not understandable to the listener
• Personal differences (e.g. way of thinking or culture)
• Lack of trust between the speaker and listener
• Disinterest of either party