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Social Sci LibreTexts

About the Book

  • Page ID
    251238
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    Beginning with the essential question—what is communication?—the first chapter lays the groundwork by introducing key definitions and outlining the many benefits of studying communication, from personal growth to professional development. In Chapter 2, we dive into perception, exploring how we make sense of ourselves and others, and how improving our perceptual abilities enhances communication effectiveness. Chapter 3 turns our attention to communication theory, introducing students to a range of paradigms—from empirical laws to critical theories—that help explain and predict communicative behavior. The following chapters focus on the core channels of communication: verbal and nonverbal, with discussions on their definitions, functions, and roles in meaning-making. Listening, often an overlooked skill, is thoroughly examined in Chapter 6, where students learn about the listening process, its challenges, and strategies for becoming better listeners. Chapter 7 explores communication climates, emphasizing how messages can affirm or deny others’ presence and the role of conflict in shaping relationships. Interpersonal communication, covered in Chapter 8, examines the development and maintenance of various relationships including friendships, romantic partnerships, and family ties. Identity and culture come to the forefront in Chapters 9 and 10, where the focus shifts to how culture influences communication and how to navigate intercultural interactions with competence and sensitivity. Finally, Chapter 11 introduces students to mass communication and media literacy, highlighting the growing influence of media in shaping public discourse and individual perceptions.

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