Demostrative Communication

1040 Words3 Pages

When looking at demonstrative communication, it is important to consider the environment. No matter the nature of our relationships, whether personal, family or work related, the environment we are in can have an effect on how we communicate. This can influence our tone of voice, facial expressions, body language and how we conduct ourselves in general. I am reminded of this from the movie Jerry McGuire and involves two scenes, but the actions are related.
In one scene Jerry is taken to a restaurant. A conversation is started that has a negative tone, as Jerry looks around, he realizes the restaurant is chosen to stop him from causing a scene. This may have included raising his voice, loudly arguing, hitting the table and other actions. This environment factored in to how he expressed himself. The next scene has him at his office in a more comfortable and personal setting, as he is getting ready to leave he causes a scene. His tone expressed his displeasure, hurt, and feelings of injustice. Although his voice was raised, he showed he was in control by saying that he was not going to flip out and, in the process started flailing his arms around. His actions encompassed many varying aspects of the communication process especially as it relates to demonstrative.
I also think of my children when I think of communication and the environment influencing our actions. I have four children, two who are in their twenties. Years ago, while in the store with my oldest, one of my daughters decided to be defiant. She communicated this by ignoring me, rolling her eyes, crossing her arms over her chest and finally telling me I would not spank her in the middle of the aisle. I calmly walked over, bent and gave her a swat on her rear end, all witho...

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...ledge what is acceptable there, is not applicable in an office setting, especially if you want to be taken seriously and looked at as a professional. While yelling and waving your arms may be the norm on the stock exchange floor, this will not be acceptable in a law office and courtroom. A server who chews gum and is mouthy may be considered as having personality in a diner, the same may not be true in a fine dining restaurant. While serving drinks and listening to your customers complaints, it may be o.k. to roll your eyes, be totally agreeable and accepting of their views on their life, but as a psychiatrist this is not the best way to help your patient. It is important to know yourself when you choose a profession and consider your expectations and adjustments you need to make on order to effectively communicate professionally.

Works Cited

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