Communication Through Communication

981 Words2 Pages

Laura Jones
Test 2
March 31, 2014

Application Paper 3 – Test 2
Through communication, relationships are formed. The type of relationship that we form is directly related to the type of communication that occurs. We can communicate with each other in three ways: I-it communication is the most impersonal form of communication, it involves treating someone as a means to an end and example would be the communication you have with a salesperson. I-you communication is less impersonal it is the most common form of communication; an example would be the communication you have with a colleague or a casual friend. I-thou communication is the most personal, only this type of communication can lead to an interpersonal relationship. It is important to note I-thou communication can occur via text-based CMC and therefore an interpersonal relationship can be achieved through CMC.
Several definitions of interpersonal communication exist however I believe that it is best defined as “A selective, systemic, unique, ongoing process of interaction between individuals who effect and build personal knowledge of each other and create shared meaning.” (Wood, 2002). I chose this definition because it included terms that are not included in other definitions. The inclusion of the word selective is important because it addresses the conscious effort that both people must make in order to achieve an interpersonal relationship. The definition also includes the word between which eludes to the fact that an interpersonal relationship belongs to both people involved. The last part of the definition that appeals to me is when it uses the words “effects” and “builds” I though that was important because it shows how an interpersonal relationship changes with ev...

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... the ocean from her balcony. This technology allows us to be present in conversations that occur worldwide. I have friends that live in Scotland, Italy, and Jamaica, and though I do not Skype with them on a regular basis I am still able to keep in touch with them via Facebook and text messages.
Today it is evident that interpersonal relationships can be formed and maintained via CMC. Through CMC, one can achieve all the necessary components that can evolve into an interpersonal relationship. CMC allows two people to communicate and construct messages that permit them to build personal knowledge of one another. The lack of non-verbal cues does not affect the quality of the interpersonal relationship in the end because of the use of other communication mechanisms. Because CMC allows two people to share I-thou communication, interpersonal relationships can be formed.

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