COMM 101 Lecture Notes - Lecture 1: Cultural Identity, Anxiety, Communication
Document Summary
Communication is the process by which we use symbols, signs, and behaviors to exchange information. Communication is much more complex than common sense. The functional perspective examines how communication behaviors work or don"t work to accomplish goals. Relationships are the interconnections or interdependence between two or more people that function to achieve some goal. Relationship interdependence means that what we do affects others, and vice versa. There are three primary functions in communication: The quality or value of communication by examining its 6 characteristics. Communication relies on symbols, arbitrary constructions related to the people, things, or concepts to which they refer. Communication is linked to culture, the shared beliefs values, and practices of a group of people, and co-cultures, smaller groups within a culture. Communication requires a channel, the method through which it occurs. Communication is a transactional process; you influence other while they influence you. Competent communication is more process than outcome focused.