Running head: DISCUSSION POST 1
Discussion Post
Student’s name
University affiliation
Author’s note
DISCUSSION POST 2
There are different interpersonal communication concepts, which have been depicted in
the movie fireproof. The film depicts a connubial couple that has forgotten their duties in
marriage. They lack an active audience to air their issues. Such communication is referred to as
degenerative spiral. According to Stewart, this type of communication model, dispute, and
misunderstandings cause more problems in a relationship (Stewart, 2012). In the first part of the
movie, the relationship between Catherin and Caleb deteriorates. This is witnessed with every
response given by either Catherine or Caleb, which breed negative air within them. When they
talk, they squabble with each other about errands and the food. That makes them view each other
as offering a negative tone of voice, phrases, and negative body language.
Through the movie, their communication changes from being degenerative spiral to a
generative communication spiral. It comes after Caleb’s father gives him a book. Stewart defines
that type of communication as a positive feeling, which results from interlocking behavior
(Stewart, 2012). Catherine, however, is not ready to acknowledge Caleb’s change in behavior.
However, later she accepts the progress and reacts positively towards him.
Self-discourse also plays an essential role in the protagonist’s lives. When Catherine and
Caleb try to rebuild their relationship, they had come to terms with what they were facing and
decided to correct that (Kendrick, 2008). When Caleb communicated to his father about the
crumbling marriage, he could be guided on how he can save a divorce and have good relations
with his wife. As the movie starts, Caleb tells his father that his marriage is failing and “feels
nothing” about Catherine anymore. Once Caleb and Catherine can communicate adequately.
They let what disturbed them dwindle and realized the reason why they were married.
Lastly, I acknowledge one of the events that happened when the movie began. Catherine
wishes she were able to talk to her mother like they once did. I assume Catherine’s mother is ill;
thus, she is unable to communicate with her mother, unlike Caleb, who talks to his father
anytime. However, by using non-verbal communication, Catherine can talk to her mother
through sign language, facial expression, or eye contact.
DISCUSSION POST 3
References
Kendrick, A. (Director). (2008). Fireproof [Motion Picture]. Albany, GA: Sony Pictures.
Stewart, J. (2012). Bridges Not Walls: A Book About Interpersonal Communication (11th ed.).
New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
