Chapter Two Understanding Human Communication Ninth Edition AdlerRodman

Chapter Two Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Our perceptions of others shape the way we communicate with them. Examples? Factors influencing perceptions: • Success constructing shared narratives through communication. What does that mean? • Personal stories we tell ourselves to make sense of the world. • Our tendency to make perceptual errors. Examples? • Experience and prior relationship with that person. • Our cultural background. • Our ability to empathize. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

The skill of perception checking can help clarify mistaken perceptions, leading to a shared narrative and smoother communication. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Communication depends on the way we perceive ourselves, as well as others. • How does perception affect communication? • How does communication shape the -concept? self • How does culture shape our self-perceptions? • The role of personality in shaping our perceptions. • How does self-fulfilling prophecy affect communication? Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Our personal narratives can be misleading. Why? • Blame others or outside forces Big problem… • Attribution---attaching meaning to behavior but using different yardsticks. • Judging ourselves more charitably than others. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

We are influenced by what is most obvious We notice some messages & ignore others. Examples? • Pay attention to intense stimuli • Repetitious stimuli • Contrastive stimuli (happy person who acts grumpy etc) How do motives affect perception and communication? MOTIVES determine how we perceive people. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Most noticeable behavior may not be the most important. Why? • First impressions • We hang on to them • Better: Keep an open mind Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

We tend to favor negative impressions over positive ones. • Research: More influenced by negative traits of someone else. • Bottom line: Don’t assume your first judgment of a person is accurate. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Situational factors influencing perception • Satisfied relationship • Degree of involvement with the other person • Past experience • Expectations (Boss---pls see me in my office) • Social roles: Men & women interpret facial expressions differently • Knowledge---knowing the context • Self-concept: Feeling insecure, happy, sad, etc Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Perception and culture North American: • Talk is desired. Social role. • Silence is negative. (Anxiety, shyness, hostility) • We are uncomfortable with silence Most Asian cultures: • Discourage expression of thoughts and feelings • Silence is valued • Talkative might be perceived as show-off or insincere Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Perception and culture-------Eye Contact • Latino woman might look down if addressed by an older white police officer. Not avoidance…culture. • Whites tend to look away from a conversational partner while speaking and at the partner when listening. • Blacks tend to look at a conversational partner while speaking and away when listening. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Empathy What is empathy? How do you demonstrate empathy in communications? Perspective talking. What is it? Value? • Ability to take on the viewpoint of another person. • Suspension of judgment. • Emotion: Experience the feelings others have. • Genuine concern. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Is empathy sympathy? No. Sympathy means you feel compassion. Empathy means you have a personal sense of what they are going through. Empathy allows you to understand another person’s motives without agreeing with them. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Understanding opposing views helps solve problems and conflicts. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Perception Checking • Better way to handle your interpretations • Description of the behavior you noticed. • At least two possible interpretations of the behavior. • Clarify how to interpret the behavior Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

The self concept Describe your…. • Moods or feelings • Appearance and physical condition • Social traits • Talents you possess • Intellectual capacity • Strong beliefs • Social roles Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Self-Esteem Powerful effect on the way we communicate. Write down whether you think you have high or low self esteem. Write down 3 ways you can change that tomorrow. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Communication and development of the self Our identity comes almost exclusively from communications with others. What contributes to development of the -concept? self • Speaking • Understanding language • Verbal messages Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Culture and the self-concept • Westerners are more individualistic. • Asked for identity: Give name, address. • Many Asians give country first. • Hindus will give their caste and village name These reflect different ways of viewing one’s self. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Self-fulfilling Prophecy When a person’s expectation of an outcome makes it more likely to happen Examples: • You expect to be nervous at a job interview • You anticipate having a good time at a party • YOU can also influence others. • Children may do better in school because teachers or parents demonstrate a belief they can achieve. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

The perceived self. What is it? The perceived self is a reflection of the concept self- The presenting self. What is it? The presenting self is the public image we want to appear to others Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

Identity Management What is it and why is it important? • Manage behavior and impressions. Why? • Follow social rules • Accomplish personal goals High self monitors pay attention to their own behavior and reactions of others… Allows them top adjust communications to create the desired impression. Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.

How do we manage impressions? • Face to face • Manage behavior • Manage emotions • Be self-aware Understanding Human Communication, Ninth Edition Adler/Rodman Copyright © 2006 by Oxford University Press, Inc.