Integration

Interpersonal Communication

Running Head: ASSIGNMENT 1

Interpersonal Communication

Theory # 1: Symbolic Interactionism theory

This theory is based on the belief that the self - concept, thoughts and the outer community is created based on the communication that happens. So, Symbolic interactionism can be defined as the use of language on an ongoing basis along with the gestures which become the reason for anticipation and reactions. This is not just about talking, it includes all the verbal as well as non – verbal responses from the listener shaping expectation of the speaker and how he reacts (LaRossa & Reitzes, 2009). The basic assumption is about the actions of human towards other things which are associated with the meanings that are assigned to certain things and people.

1. Dealing with work

In work settings, the interactions are commonly affected by the symbolic interactionism. However, the actions of other people instantly show the reaction which compels the person to change his perspective. The understanding of people at work is quite different because there is a formal relationship maintained and people are related to the obligatory relationships as they depend on the working of one another. So, symbolic interactionism has more impact on the change in behavior.

2. Dealing with family

The symbolic interactionism is comparatively less prominent in the family settings. As people are closely related they understand the way of one another accordingly adjust. Making an agreement is much easier because there are various other factors involved including the consideration of age and relations. This thing comes in between, and people interact mostly based on the symbols that are shown by clarification of values. Also, the time spent with family is more as compared to the other social circles so it also plays a significant role in shaping the thinking patterns and language.

3. Dealing with the media

The media dealing is also different in symbolic interactions as the person is more comfortable with the friends. The comfort level is high which makes a person ignore multiple aspects. There is no binding agreement between the two parties which gives a free will to communication and very less requirement to change the nature of interaction based on the symbols.

Theory # 2: Coordinated Management of Meaning Theory (CMM)

This is a communication theory which consists of multiple tools which can help with the understanding of interactions. There are various critical moments in the conversation that are affected due to this and the ways of talking are introduced for the creation of a cooperative social environment (Bentley et al., 2012). There are various models, concepts and descriptions involved here to explain multiple factors of communication.

1. Dealing with work

In a work setting, there are various meanings attached to certain types of communication. Also, the types of communication vary depending on the medium. Multiple involved mediums include memos, emails, face to face and meetings communication. On the basis of all these things, the interpretation of meanings also differs. If something comes in written communication, this means that it is of a serious nature.

2. Dealing with family

Among the family interactions, there is a repetitive pattern created because of the management of meaning. There are various unwanted repetitive patterns which are called strange loops in the communication of family. With the routine communication, there are certain meanings attached to the communication which takes place on regular basis. Then, whenever the repetition in that communication occurs, the person understands it immediately because of the meanings attached to it.

3. Dealing with the media

Similarly, in media and friends, the meanings attached to communication are of a loose nature. The communication commonly takes place in the form of dialogues where there is a certain issue under discussion. In such a scenario, there are structured communications which have meanings associated with certain groups only. The people who are in conversation construct certain meaning to their social realities which help in shaping the world outside of them.

Theory # 3: Expectancy Violations Theory

There are certain expectations of a person during communicating with any certain entity when such expectations are violated this goes against the conduct of communication. There is a hypothetical boundary created outside the intimate space of the person where any kind of breach can lead to fights (Em, 2011). Everyone has their own personal space and proximity which they do not want to give to any other person, whenever the violation of such space occurs, this is known to be the expectancy violation theory.

1. Dealing with work

In work settings, personal space is the most important things. There is a formal relationship prevailing among the coworkers and they have to maintain better relationships which being in their personal space and not violating the expectations of others for making the operations go smoothly. The predictions of people about what will happen in the work place are the expectations which they want others to fulfil related to work.

2. Dealing with family

In a family setting, this is completely different as the relationships are more closely tied so people expect that the other person will perform according to their desire. The level of trust among the relations is more making them expect more.

3. Dealing with the media

In media, the relations with everyone is different. Based on the nature of closeness, these expectations are shaped. However, these are sensitive relations where the violation of expectations can also lead to threatening the relationships.

Reference

Bentley, K., Blong, L., Forsythe, L., Hutcheson, J., Leinaweaver, J., Marrs, P., ... & Peterson, J. (2012). The reflective, facilitative, and interpretive practice of the coordinated management of meaning: Making lives and making meaning. Lexington Books.

Em, G. (2011). A first look at communication theory. NY: New York: McGraw Hill, 194-204.

LaRossa, R., & Reitzes, D. C. (2009). Symbolic interactionism and family studies. In Sourcebook of family theories and methods (pp. 135-166). Springer, Boston, MA.