Communication Theory

A basic understanding of the concept and process of communication will provide listening and perception, which are essential principles. Listening and hearing are not the same. The ability to listen well is one of the most essential communication-related skills. Listening is important in our personal and professional lives. Trenholm (2008), states that listening is the “process of receiving and responding to spoken and/or nonverbal messages” (p. 45). Perception and interpretation of an encoded or decoded message will have a different meaning or perspective. In other words, the way a message is received will depend on the receiver’s perception and interpretation.

Building personal and professional relationships are benefits of communication. The ability to effectively send and receive messages are benefits of communication. Effective communication skills are also benefits of communication.

Verbal communication, nonverbal communication, written communication, and oral communication are forms of communication. These forms are important for an individual’s success as well as an organization.

The purpose of communication is the process to inform or share information of how ideas, beliefs, and values can persuade or convince others about a specific topic or message.

References

Trenholm, S. (2008). Thinking through communication: An introduction to the study of human communication (5^th ed.). Boston: Pearson Education.