Psychology REFLECTION ASSIGNMENT

Reflection Paper: Communication Patterns Assignment 1

Reflection Paper: Communication Patterns Assignment

Treylesia Alston

Liberty University

HSCO508

Dr.Moitinho

January 28, 2024

Reflection Paper: Communication Patterns Assignment 2

Reflection Paper: Communication Patterns Assignment

According to Petersen, “Emotion regulation is the cornerstone of effective interpersonal

communication”. The concept of emotion regulation, as presented by Petersen in chapters 3–7,

provides a distinctive perspective for examining the dynamics of interpersonal communication.

The theories of Flat-Brain Tango, Flat-Brain Syndrome, and Flat-Brain Theory of Emotions offer

witty yet informative frameworks for comprehending how emotions affect communication

(Petersen,2022). Using the Flat-Brain Theory of Emotions, I can reflect on how well I can

control my emotions. I looked at situations in which my communication style was affected by

emotional reactions to understand how thoughts and emotions interact.

The ideas provided by Petersen offer a distinctive starting point for a serious

investigation of emotion control techniques. The whimsical imagery of the Flat-Brain Theory of

Emotions highlights the complexity and simplicity of our emotional reactions(Petersen,2022).

This theory provides insights into how I can control my emotions and handle the ups and downs

of feelings in various contexts. Petersen differentiates feelings from thoughts. According to him,

people struggle to differentiate between the two concepts making it difficult for them to

comprehend their behaviors(Petersen,2022). Petersen's ideas have helped me to examine my

communication skills and differentiate my feelings from my thinking. Now that I know how to

differentiate them, I recall a time when I made poor decisions due to my emotions. It was

difficult to find the right words to express what I meant without becoming accusatory in a heated

argument. Thankfully, Petersen provides some ideas on how I can improve my emotional

intelligence by taking a deliberate approach instead of making poor decisions due to my

emotions.

Reflection Paper: Communication Patterns Assignment 3

In a private setting, I can resonate with Flat-Brain Tango because I have personally

experienced it in interpersonal communications with friends. I have had the impression that we

were pacing back and forth like a couple does when they dance. Especially in the early stages of

our friendship, there have been occasions when our emotions have caused us to misinterpret

thoughts that have been shared, which has caused us to become defensive and shut down. As we

grew older, we learned more efficient communication techniques that involved listening more,

though we still occasionally talk more than we listen. It's important to practice empathic listening

before speaking when interacting with people( Jones et al.,2019). By listening first, one can

minimize the back and forth of flat-brain tango by gaining perception and comprehension before

sharing their viewpoint or becoming reactive. The ability of a person to grow and thrive can be

hindered by poor communication( Solomon & Theiss,2022). I must comprehend and be

conscious of the physiological response and role that influences communication if I am to

enhance my communication abilities. Thus, I am putting a lot of emphasis on listening to

improve my interpersonal communication skills with my friends( Petersen,2022). This strategy

is a crucial tactic for enhancing communication and building deeper connections.

In a professional setting, I can remember talking with a former coworker who many said

was very mean and negative. Before we even had our first conversation, my guard was already

up. Rather than truly listening to the message she was trying to get through to me, I was waiting

for her to say something negative during their conversation. During that same conversation, I

caught myself overanalyzing some of her remarks when, in truth, she was just communicating

her legitimate concerns about her caseload. To listen well during a conversation, one must set

aside their preconceptions (Petersen, 2022). Many people have to convince themselves that they

are excellent listeners when, in fact, all they are capable of doing is hearing and repeating what

Reflection Paper: Communication Patterns Assignment 4

was said. Again, I've done this before, but I've since learned how to listen well and get clarity

before answering after someone has finished speaking.

I believe that God gave humans the wonderful gift of communication as a powerful tool

to help us live abundantly happy and fulfilling lives. I can only imagine how boring life would be

without it. God should be at the center of all communications and no matter the circumstances we

should never use our communication skills for selfish gain because doing so puts us in danger of

taking advantage of other people (Schultze & Badzinski,2015). The Bible's book of Proverbs

explains the power of words. Proverbs 18:21 states that we can speak life or death(King James

Bible). I think that words originate in the head or possibly the stomach long before they are

spoken. My chances of controlling my words and avoiding the Flat Brain Tango instead of

marching to court will be significantly higher if I can control my thoughts and feelings (Petersen,

2022). My objective is to keep getting better at pausing, taking a deep breath, seeing my feelings

and thoughts as energy, and using it to benefit myself and other people. I also recognize the

significance of God's presence in interpersonal communications and the need for us humans to

demonstrate discernment, grace, patience, love for God, and most importantly, love for others.

In conclusion, it's crucial to comprehend my interpersonal communication behaviors.

Analyzing how my particular communication style aligns with Petersen's ideas has helped me

identify my strengths and my room for improvement. Combining biblical principles with

psychological insights provided a comprehensive framework for assessing and improving my

communication styles. As a result, I now have a clear understanding of how communication,

faith, and emotions are all interconnected.

Reflection Paper: Communication Patterns Assignment 5

References

Jones, S. M., Bodie, G. D., & Hughes, S. D. (2019). The impact of mindfulness on empathy, active

listening, and perceived provisions of emotional support. Communication Research, 46(6), 838-

865.

King James Bible Online

Petersen, J. C. (2022). Why don’t we listen better? Communicating and connecting in relationships (3rd

ed.). Petersen Publications. ISBN: 9780979155987.

Schultze, Q. J. & Badzinski, D. M. (2015). An essential guide to interpersonal communication: Building

great relationships with faith, skill, and virtue in the age of social media. Baker Academic.

ISBN: 9781441248725

Solomon, D., & Theiss, J. (2022). Interpersonal communication: Putting theory into practice.

Routledge.