To summarize the skills of this course, make an argument defending how interpersonal communication skills affect relationships.
This is a research and skills application essay.
--Research is expected with at least two (2) references to support claims, not including the textbook of our course.
Do not quote material from your sources, but instead explain your findings in your own words and be sure to note where sources are used within the text of your paper.
--Be sure to apply at least two (2) different skills/concepts of this course from the list below to support building an effective relationship. Use a specific example demonstrating how to apply/use each concept as we learned in class.
Skills List (choose two):
-Myers Briggs Type
-Paradigm
-Influences on Perception
-Emotional Fallacies (clear emotional vocabulary)
-Language Barriers
-Types of Nonverbal Communication
-Ineffective Listeners
-Hierarchy of Listening
-Conflict Behaviors
Sample Solution
Strong relationships are the cornerstone of a fulfilling life. They provide us with love, support, and a sense of belonging. But building and maintaining these connections requires more than just shared interests or proximity. Effective interpersonal communication skills are the bedrock upon which strong relationships are built.
Consider a study by researchers at the University of Arizona [1]. They found that couples who reported using more positive communication behaviors, such as expressing affection and appreciation, experienced greater marital satisfaction. Conversely, couples who used more negative communication behaviors, such as criticism and defensiveness, reported lower levels of satisfaction.
Full Answer Section
Effective interpersonal communication goes beyond simply conveying information. It involves understanding the nuances of verbal and nonverbal cues, actively listening to others, and expressing oneself clearly and thoughtfully. Let's explore two key communication skills that significantly impact relationships: active listening and emotional intelligence.
Active Listening: The Power of Truly Hearing
Active listening is more than simply waiting for your turn to speak. It's about paying close attention to the speaker's verbal and nonverbal cues, acknowledging their emotions, and asking clarifying questions to ensure understanding. Imagine you're having a conversation with a friend who is feeling stressed about work. Active listening would involve making eye contact, nodding your head in encouragement, and summarizing what you've heard to show you're paying attention. Phrases like "It sounds like you're feeling overwhelmed" or "Can you tell me more about what's causing you stress?" demonstrate active listening and create a safe space for your friend to open up [2].
Emotional Intelligence: Navigating the Landscape of Feelings
Emotional intelligence encompasses the ability to understand, use, and manage your own emotions in positive ways, as well as to perceive, understand, and influence the emotions of others [2]. In relationships, emotional intelligence allows you to empathize with your partner's feelings, even when you disagree. For instance, if your partner is upset about a misunderstanding, emotional intelligence would involve acknowledging their hurt feelings without being defensive. You might say, "I understand why you're upset. Can we talk about what happened from both our perspectives?" This approach fosters a sense of connection and shows your partner that their feelings are valued.
Conclusion
Interpersonal communication skills are not magic bullets, but they are powerful tools for building and nurturing relationships. By actively listening, expressing ourselves clearly, and managing our emotions effectively, we can create stronger connections with others and foster a sense of trust, empathy, and understanding. As Maya Angelou eloquently stated, "People forget what you said, people forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Let's strive to make each other feel heard, valued, and understood through the power of effective communication.